Vocalic: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in linguistic and phonetic contexts to describe sounds that are related to or consisting of vowels. Typically used in academic or technical discussions about language and sounds.

• The vocalic system of this language is particularly complex.
• In the study of phonology, vocalic sounds play a crucial role.

Commonly used in both everyday language and academic contexts to refer to letters and sounds like 'a,' 'e,' 'i,' 'o,' 'u.' It is a broad term that non-specialists are more likely to use.

• Each syllable must contain at least one vowel.
• The English language has five primary vowels.

Primarily used in linguistics and phonetics to refer to sounds voiced by the vocal cords. Often used in scholarly articles or discussions about the properties of sounds.

• Sonant consonants include sounds like 'm,' 'n,' and 'l.'
• In certain languages, sonant sounds are essential for meaning differentiation.

This term is often used in linguistics to refer to sounds that are produced with a specific vowel quality. It's quite technical and not used in everyday conversation.

• The word features a prominent vocalic sound.
• In this phonetic study, the vocalic elements are highlighted.

A vowel refers to a speech sound that is produced without any significant constriction of airflow in the vocal tract. It's the most common and broadly understood term among the group.

• In English, there are five main vowels: A, E, I, O, U.
• The letter 'O' is a vowel.

Sonant is used similarly to 'vocalic' to describe sound aspects of speech, emphasizing tones that can be voiced. This term is also more technical and is used in linguistic studies.

• The sonant quality of the musical piece was remarkable.
• Linguists often analyze the sonant parts of languages.