Question

Which of the following best describes 'rhythm' in spoken English?

• A. The rise and fall of pitch across phrases and sentences.
• B. The pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in speech.
• C. The highness or lowness of a speaker's voice.
• D. The speed at which someone speaks.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. The pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in speech.

Rhythm in spoken English refers to the pattern of stressed and unstressed syllables in speech.

"The regular pattern of strong (stressed) and weak (unstressed) syllables in spoken language."

• English is a stress-timed language, meaning that stressed syllables occur at roughly equal intervals, while unstressed syllables fit in between.

• This creates a natural flow in speech.

🔹 Example:

• "I 'want to 'go to the 'cinema."
  (Stressed syllables: want, go, cin in cinema)