downstep
Speech parts
1. downstep - Noun
2. downstep - Verb
Meaning
downstep (plural downsteps)
A downward shift of tone between the syllables or words of a tonal language.
downstep (third-person singular simple present downsteps, present participle downstepping, simple past and past participle downstepped)
To apply a downward shift of tone between the syllables or words of a tonal language.
Anagrams
Examples
Most Gur languages have been describe following the model of a two tone downstep system.
Most Gur languages to the north of Senufo have a two tone downstep system, but the tonal system of the Senufo languages is mostly analysed as a three level tone system (High, Mid, Low).
Tonal sandhi processes like tone spread, tone shift, and downstep and downdrift are common in African languages.
It may cause downstep, or it may combine with other tones to form contours.