intonation

• Nom désignant la variation de la hauteur de la voix dans le discours parlé, ou la justesse et la précision dans la reproduction des tons musicaux, notamment en ce qui concerne la hauteur du son.

A noun referring to the variation of pitch in spoken language, or the precise production of musical tones, especially in relation to pitch accuracy.

1. Voice pitch variationB2formal

   The rise and fall of the voice pitch when speaking, which can change the meaning of a sentence.

   Intonation

   • Her intonation rose at the end of the question.
   • A falling intonation often indicates a statement.
   • Learning proper intonation is key to sounding natural in a new language.

   Synonymescadenceinflectionmodulationpitchprosodytone

2. Opening plainsongC2formalart

   The singing by a soloist of the opening piece of plainsong in a liturgical service.

   Intonation du plain-chant

   • The priest began the service with a solemn intonation.
   • The choir's intonation of the plainsong was hauntingly beautiful.
   • He practiced the intonation for the morning mass.

3. Monotonous singingC1formalart

   The act of singing in a monotonous tone, without variation in pitch.

   Psalmodie monotone

   • The monks' intonation was steady and unchanging.
   • His intonation during the chant was flat and repetitive.
   • The ritual required a specific intonation pattern.

   Synonymeschantingdroning

4. Musical pitch accuracyC1formalart

   The production of musical tones by voice or instrument, especially regarding the exactitude of pitch relations.

   Justesse de l'intonation

   • The violinist's intonation was flawless during the solo.
   • Good intonation is essential for playing in an orchestra.
   • She practiced scales to improve her vocal intonation.

   Synonymespitchtuning