English Intonation - Tonic Syllables, Tones and Intonation Phrases

3 important questions on English Intonation - Tonic Syllables, Tones and Intonation Phrases

What is a tonic syllable?

The tonic syllable is the longest, loudest, most stresses syllable of an utterance, usually in the last word. It is called 'tonic' because it is where the tone falls.

What is an intonation phrase?

A stretch of discourse that contains a tonic syllable.

What are syllables called that follow the tonic syllable?

The tail.

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