Definition

Relating to features of speech that go beyond individual sounds, such as intonation, stress, and rhythm.

Example

In linguistics, suprasegmental features play a crucial role in conveying meaning and emotion in spoken language.

Conversation

I recently learned about suprasegmental features in phonetics.

Oh really? What are those?

They relate to aspects like stress and intonation, which are more than just segments of speech.

That sounds interesting! It must help with understanding spoken language better.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Definition

A feature in speech that affects how sounds are pronounced, including aspects like length, stress, tone, and aspiration, which go beyond individual sounds.

Example

In linguistics, suprasegmental features play a crucial role in conveying meaning and emotion in speech.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term suprasegmental?

Yeah, I think it relates to how we emphasize certain parts of speech.

Exactly! It’s all about the stress and tone we use when speaking.

Root Explanation

Suprasegmental is formed from "supra-" (meaning above or over) and "segmental" (from "segmentum", meaning a segment or part). The term refers to features of speech that are above the level of individual sounds or segments, such as intonation and stress.

Memory Tip

Think of 'supra-' meaning 'above' and 'segmental' referring to 'parts' — this helps you remember that suprasegmental features are those that exist above the individual sounds in speech.

Visually Confused Words