THE ROLE OF SUPRASEGMENTALS IN ENGLISH: STRESS, INTONATION AND RHYTM

This article explores the essential role of suprasegmental features—stress, intonation, and rhythm—in spoken English communication. It begins by defining stress and its impact on word and sentence meaning, illustrating how emphasis can alter interpretations. The article then discusses intonation as a crucial element for conveying emotions and intent, highlighting its significance in distinguishing between statements and questions. The concept of rhythm is addressed, explaining how English operates as a stress-timed language and the importance of understanding rhythmic patterns for fluency. Furthermore, the article emphasizes the importance of teaching suprasegmentals in language education, suggesting various strategies such as focused listening activities, pronunciation drills, and role-playing exercises. It highlights the role of technology in facilitating the learning process through interactive tools and resources.