Pitch targets and their realization: Evidence from Mandarin Chinese
In this paper, we propose a preliminary framework for accounting for certain surface F0 variations in speech. The framework consists of definitions for pitch targets and rules of their implementation. Pitch targets are defined as the smallest operable units associated with linguistically functional pitch units, and they are comparable to segmental phones. The implementation rules are based on possible articulatory constraints on the production of surface F0 contours. Due to these constraints, the implementation of a simple pitch target may result in surface F0 forms that only partially reflect the underlying pitch targets. We will also discuss possible implications of this framework on our understanding of various observed F0 patterns, including carryover and anticipatory variations, downstep, declination, and F0 peak alignment. Finally, we will consider possible interactions between local and non-local pitch targets.
pitch targets articulatory constraint f0 contour downstep declination tone pitch accents peak delay topic initiation