Intonated: meaning, definitions and examples
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intonated
[ˈɪn.tə.neɪ.tɪd ]
Definition
Context #1 | Verb
speech patterns
Intonated refers to the way in which one's voice rise and falls when speaking, often to convey meaning or emotion. This can include variations in pitch and rhythm that emphasize certain words or phrases.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She intonated her words to give them more meaning.
- The teacher intonated the instructions to ensure clarity.
- He intonated the last sentence with a dramatic pause.
- In poetry, intonated readings can enhance emotional impact.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'intonare', which means 'to sound' or 'to thunder' – originally linked to producing sound.
- The prefix 'in-' suggests 'into' or 'upon', while 'tonated' relates to sound, reflecting the act of producing clear vocal tones.
Linguistics
- Intonation can change the meaning of a sentence. For example, a rising intonation at the end of a statement often indicates a question.
- Different languages use intonation in unique ways; for instance, Mandarin Chinese uses pitch variations to distinguish word meaning.
Psychology
- Intonated speech affects how listeners perceive emotions; a cheerful tone can make a message feel positive, while a flat tone may seem dull.
- Research indicates that appropriate intonation helps in building rapport during conversations, making interactions feel more engaging.
Education
- Teachers often use varied intonation to capture students' attention and help them understand the importance of different parts of the lesson.
- Reading with the correct intonation helps students improve their comprehension and can make stories more enjoyable.
Performing Arts
- Actors study intonation to convey their characters’ emotions more effectively, enhancing their performances on stage.
- In music, singers use intonation to create harmony and express musical phrasing, showing how this concept also applies outside speaking.