Speech prosody: The musical, magical quality of speech
Jan 17, 2022·,
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1 min read
Marita K. Everhardt
Anastasios Sarampalis
Matt Coler
Deniz Başkent
Wander Lowie
Abstract
When we speak, we can vary how we use our voices. Our speech can be high or low (pitch), loud or soft (loudness), and fast or slow (duration). This variation in pitch, loudness, and duration is called speech prosody. It is a bit like making music. Varying our voices when we speak can express sarcasm or emotion and can even change the meaning of what we are saying. So, speech prosody is a crucial part of spoken language. But how do speakers produce prosody? How do listeners hear and understand these variations? Is it possible to hear and interpret prosody in other languages? And what about people whose hearing is not so good? Can they hear and understand prosodic patterns at all? Let’s find out!
Type
Publication
Frontiers for Young Minds, 10, 698575
This publication is designed specifically for young readers and explains the concept of speech prosody in an accessible way. The article explores how we use variations in our voice (pitch, loudness, and duration) to communicate meaning beyond just words.
The paper is published in Frontiers for Young Minds, a scientific journal where articles are reviewed by young people themselves, ensuring the content is accessible and engaging for its target audience.
