ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-119-007 · ATLAS 251

Mora

A prosodic unit of weight used by languages to organize the temporal or rhythmic structure of syllables.

Explanation

A prosodic unit of weight used by languages to organize the temporal or rhythmic structure of syllables. Rhythm is not measured solely in syllables; smaller units of weight can carry meaning and meter.

Example

Atlas example: Rhythm is not counted solely in syllables; smaller units of weight can carry meaning and meter.

Counterexample

Mere formal similarity without the relationship characteristic of mora.

Distinction

Distinguishing from syllables: What is decisive for mora is the specific movement; rhythm is not counted solely in syllables; smaller units of weight can convey meaning and meter.

Effect on thought and perception

Rhythm is not counted solely in syllables; smaller units of weight can carry meaning and meter.

Resonance

Mora renders relationships perceptible as directed change: Rhythm is not counted solely in syllables; smaller units of weight can carry meaning and meter.

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Mora“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-119-007. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-119-007

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-119-007

The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.