In this video we are going to have a look at tone units and tonic syllables in the English intonation system.

Spoken English is organised into small parcels called tone units. I know, we often think of English in terms of words and sentences, but this is more accurate when we look at written English. In spoken English, we have tone units. These are the basic building blocks.

Within each tone unit we have one, or sometimes two prominent syllables. The last prominent syllable in a tone unit is the tonic syllable. It introduces the start of a new intonation pattern.

Sounds all a bit technical? Don’t worry! In the video I will show you many examples to make this topic clear. If you would like to improve your pronunciation, I would encourage you to start listening to HOW people speak. Usually, we pay attention to WHAT is said – and this is important too! – but it won’t help you to improve your own pronunciation.

Start listening well and pay attention to the HOW. Notice tone units and tonic syllables in spoken English when you listen to someone speak. This will help you to apply the same principles and as a result it will be easier for others to understand you.