Which syllable type is characterized by having a stressed sound?

Disable ads (and more) with a membership for a one time $4.99 payment

Prepare for the UCF SPA3112 Basic Phonetics Midterm Exam. Study effectively with flashcards, multiple-choice questions, and in-depth explanations. Get exam-ready now!

The correct choice is defined by its key feature of containing a stressed sound. In phonetics, a stressed syllable is one that is pronounced with greater emphasis compared to surrounding syllables. This emphasis can be characterized by a higher pitch, louder volume, and a longer duration, making it stand out in the flow of speech.

Stressed syllables are crucial in determining the rhythm and intonation of spoken language, as they help to convey meaning and clarify the structure of words. For example, in the word "photograph," the first syllable is stressed, distinguishing it from its derivatives "photography" and "photographic," where stress shifts.

Other syllable types, such as unstressed or secondary syllables, do not carry this emphasis, which helps to create a contrast that is essential for the phonetic structure of words. This distinction is important in linguistic studies, and understanding it can aid in improving pronunciation and stress patterns in various languages.