Question

In English phonology, what is the term for the emphasis placed on certain syllables within words?

• A. Rhythm
• B. Intonation
• C. Stress
• D. Pitch

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Stress

In English phonology, the term for the emphasis placed on certain syllables within words is "stress."

• Word stress refers to the greater emphasis placed on one syllable in a word compared to others.

• Stressed syllables are louder, longer, and pronounced with a higher pitch.

🔹 Examples:

• "PREsent" (noun) vs. "preSENT" (verb)

• "CONtract" (noun) vs. "conTRACT" (verb)