From the course: Public Speaking for Non-Native English Speakers

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Three inflections to know: Part 1

Three inflections to know: Part 1

From the course: Public Speaking for Non-Native English Speakers

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Three inflections to know: Part 1

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- Related to pitch, we also have inflection, how meaning is made through changes in our voice. There are three main inflections in English and they can be used in a variety of ways. Let me explain each of them, provide examples and then discuss how they can increase your confidence and intelligibility. Inflection one is the falling or downward inflection. The ends of sentences are crucial in English and there are a few things you should know about them. First, most sentences in English end with a downward or falling inflection. And the most emphasized word of a sentence often comes near the end. Now, this following intonation helps your listeners know that you've ended your thought. Listen to the last word of that sentence again. This following intonation helps your listeners know you've ended your thought. When a sentence ends on a stress syllable, like thought, we glide or slide down, thought. When a sentence ends with…

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