"syllable-timed language"的定义和意义

What is a "syllable-timed language"?

A syllable-timed language is a type of language in which each syllable is perceived as taking approximately the same amount of time, leading to a more regular and steady rhythm in speech. In syllable-timed languages, the timing of speech is based on the syllables rather than the stress patterns, so every syllable tends to receive equal emphasis. For example, languages like Italian and Spanish are often categorized as syllable-timed languages. Understanding syllable-timed languages is important in linguistics because it highlights differences in rhythmic patterns across languages and how these patterns can influence pronunciation and comprehension in spoken communication.