intonational

A singer practices the intonational patterns of a new song.

Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to intonation: "intonational" describes something that pertains to the patterns of pitch and tone in speech, known as intonation. It is used to refer to the musical or melodic qualities of language, such as rising or falling pitch.

Usage Examples

• (The way the voice rises in tone to indicate a query.)
• (She examined how pitch varies across dialects.)
• (His lack of pitch variation made his speech dull.)

Advanced Usage

• "intonational phrase": a unit of speech that carries a complete intonation pattern, often separated by pauses.

  • Each intonational phrase in the sentence was clearly marked by a brief pause. (Each pitch unit was separated for clarity.)

• "intonational contour": the overall shape or movement of pitch across a phrase or sentence.

  • The intonational contour of the statement fell at the end, indicating finality. (The pitch pattern descended to signal completion.)

Variants and Related Words

• Intonation (n): the rise and fall of the voice in speaking.

  • Her intonation rose when she asked a question. (Her voice pitch increased.)

• Intonate (v): to utter with a particular tone or modulation.

  • He intonated the prayer solemnly. (He spoke with a serious tone.)

Synonyms

• Prosodic: relating to the rhythm, stress, and intonation of speech.
• Tonal: relating to tone or pitch.

Related Idioms

• "intonational melody": a metaphorical term for the musical flow of speech.
  • The intonational melody of her voice made her stories captivating. (The pitch patterns made her speech engaging.)