Definition

In a way that relates to the sound system of a language, including the rules and patterns of sounds.

Example

The words in this language are phonologically distinct from those in English.

Conversation

Have you ever thought about how languages differ phonologically?

Yeah, it's interesting how sounds change from one language to another.

Right? I mean, some languages have sounds that are missing in others.

Exactly! It really shows how diverse human speech can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phonologically → It is formed from "phon" (from Greek "phone", meaning sound) and "-logy" (from Greek "logia", meaning study or science) and the suffix "-ical" (meaning pertaining to). The word "phonologically" refers to matters pertaining to the study of sounds in language.

Memory Tip

Think of 'phone' for sound and 'logy' for study — so phonologically means relating to the study of sounds.

Visually Confused Words