Focus-related pitch range manipulation (and peak alignment effects) in Egyptian Arabic

Abstract

This paper explores focus-related effects on pitch range and on peak alignment in Egyptian Arabic (EA), and interaction between them. Qualitative analysis of elicited focus data shows that even when post-focal and 'given', EA words bear a pitch accent. Quantitative analysis reveals gradient effects of focus in the form of pitch range manipulation but which reflects identificational/contrastive focus, not information focus. Peak alignment shows an indirect effect of post-focal F0 compression.