Tonal System (Noun)
Meaning
The system of tones used in a particular language or dialect of a tone language.
Classification
Nouns denoting communicative processes and contents.
Examples
- The Mandarin Chinese language utilizes a complex tonal system that is composed of four distinct tones and a neutral tone.
- Research into the tonal system of a given dialect often focuses on identifying patterns in how pitch and phonation are utilized to convey different meanings.
- Speakers of languages that utilize tonal systems frequently employ precise changes in pitch as well as stress patterns in speech to effectively convey information.
- Native speakers may master a given tonal system effortlessly due to continuous exposure since infancy to various applications and occurrences.
- Identifying tones can greatly benefit listeners, aiding their overall grasp and proper implementation of any distinct language-specific tonal system.