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Tonal (Adjective)

Meaning 1

Employing variations in pitch to distinguish meanings of otherwise similar words; "Chinese is a tonal language".

Classification

Relational adjectives (pertainyms).

Examples

  • Mandarin Chinese is a tonal language, which means the same word can have different meanings based on the pitch used to pronounce it.
  • The linguist specialized in studying tonal languages, particularly those spoken in Southeast Asia.
  • In Vietnamese, a tonal language, the difference in pitch can completely change the meaning of a word.
  • Tonal languages like Cantonese and Taiwanese require speakers to master a range of pitches to communicate effectively.
  • Many English language learners struggle with the tonal aspects of languages like Thai and Yoruba.

Synonyms

  • Tonic

Related Words

  • Tone (noun)

Meaning 2

Having tonality; i.e. tones and chords organized in relation to one tone such as a keynote or tonic.

Classification

All adjective clusters.

Examples

  • The tonal structure of the symphony was centered around a dominant keynote that echoed throughout the piece.
  • In tonal music, the chords and melodies are typically organized around a central tone or tonic.
  • The composer's use of tonal harmony created a sense of resolution and finality at the end of the movement.
  • The tonal palette of the jazz standard was characterized by a mix of bright, upbeat chords and melancholic minor keys.
  • The piece's tonal ambiguity was a deliberate choice by the composer to create a sense of tension and uncertainty.

Antonyms

  • Atonal

Related Words

  • Tonality (noun)
  • Tone (noun)
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