The comparative study on English and Chinese intonation

Abstract

Intonation, being the essential element and external form of a language, serves the human beings primarily as a medium of communication. The contrastive analysis of English and Chinese intonation has great significance in the development of contrastive phonology and improvement of foreign language learning and teaching practice. This article attempts to make a contrastive study of English and Chinese intonation from two aspects: structure and function. The differences and similarities between English and Chinese intonation can clarify some misunderstandings in both English and Chinese intonation teaching. © 2012 ACADEMY PUBLISHER Manufactured in Finland.