Words / C1

int-uh-NAYSHUN/ˌɪntəˈneɪʃn/

Intonation is the rise and fall of the voice in speaking: rising intonation, warm intonation. Melody (already in the dictionary) is the music twin; a lobby tone does not rewrite a cap.

Meaning

The rise and fall of the voice in speaking.

Examples

• “Warm intonation in the lobby does not rewrite the occupancy cap.”
• “Melody is already in this course (music). Pitch is a cousin. Warmth is a feeling. A cap is a certificate. Keep the figure; save warmth for the welcome.”

Good to know

The melody of speech. Music twin: melody (already in the dictionary). Warmth ≠ a rewritten cap.

Near in meaning

pitch, cadence, tone

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