HeyRuaHow to say “intonation” in Irish
- Irish:
- iontonú
- English:
- intonation, intonation (music)
- Word type:
- noun (verbal noun)
- Gender:
- masculine
- Pronunciation:
- “IN-tun-oo” /ˈin̪ˠt̪ˠən̪ˠuː/
- Genitive singular:
- iontonaithe, an iontonaithe (e.g. patrúin iontonaithe, intonation patterns)
What does “iontonú” mean?
“Iontonú” has two alternative meanings. The most common comes first.
- intonation
- The rise and fall of the voice in speech, or the act of intoning; it is the verbal noun of the verb iontonaigh.Also: intoning, pitch pattern, tone of voice.
1 other meaning: intonation (music)
- 2intonation (music)
- Accuracy of pitch in singing or playing an instrument.Also: intonation, pitch accuracy, tuning.
“Iontonú” with the article
Here is iontonú after the article (an t-alt).
“Iontonú” in a sentence: Irish examples
Common Irish sentences using iontonú, the Irish word for intonation.
Other nouns in Irish
More everyday Irish nouns to learn next.
Intonation in Irish: frequently asked questions
What is the Irish for intonation?
The Irish for intonation is iontonú (pronounced “IN-tun-oo”). It’s a masculine noun. Depending on context it can also mean intonation (music).
How do you pronounce iontonú in Irish?
Iontonú is said like “IN-tun-oo” (IPA /ˈin̪ˠt̪ˠən̪ˠuː/).
Does iontonú have a plural?
No plural form is given for iontonú in the standard. Many abstract and mass nouns in Irish have no plural.
Does iontonú have more than one meaning?
Yes. Iontonú can mean intonation or intonation (music), depending on context; the first is the most common.
Why does iontonú sometimes have a t or h in front of it?
Irish nouns beginning with a vowel take a prefix after certain words: an t-iontonú (the intonation), a hiontonú (her intonation), a n-iontonú (their intonation).
What is the difference between iontonú and tuin?
Iontonú is the technical term for intonation, while tuin is the everyday word for the lilt or accent of someone's speech, as in tuin Chonamara.
