Pinyin Pronunciation
Master Mandarin sounds with the pinyin system
The 4 Tones + Neutral Tone
Mandarin is a tonal language. The same sound spoken with a different tone completely changes the meaning of the word. This is the key to pronunciation!
ā
Tone 1 — High level
High and flat, like singing a steady note
High and flat, like singing a steady note
mā
妈= mère / mother
á
Tone 2 — Rising
Rises from middle to high, like asking 'Really?'
Rises from middle to high, like asking 'Really?'
má
麻= chanvre / hemp
ǎ
Tone 3 — Dipping
Falls then rises, like saying 'Well...' with doubt
Falls then rises, like saying 'Well...' with doubt
mǎ
马= cheval / horse
à
Tone 4 — Falling
Falls sharply from high to low, like a firm 'No!'
Falls sharply from high to low, like a firm 'No!'
mà
骂= insulter / scold
a
Tone 5 — Neutral
Light and short, no specific pitch contour
Light and short, no specific pitch contour
ma
吗= particule interrogative / question particle