Explanation
A system in which pitch contrasts are meaningful only at specific, stressed points within a word. Melody is locally bound: A single tonal peak can help determine the identity of an entire word.
Example
In Japanese, the position of the falling intonation contour can distinguish between words or forms.
Counterexample
A freely expressive sentence melody is not a lexical pitch accent.
Distinction
Distinguishing from accent: A freely expressive sentence melody is not a lexical tonal accent.
Effect on thought and perception
Melody is locally bound: A single tonal peak can contribute to the identity of an entire word.
Resonance
Tonal accent makes a directed relationship perceptible: Melody is locally bound: A single tonal peak can help define the identity of an entire word.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Pitch-accent system“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-134-003. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-134-003The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.