Laryngeal tonal characteristics of Punjabi — An experimental study

Abstract

This paper is an attempt towards an experimental study of tonal aspects of laryngeal phoneme [J]/h/ in Punjabi. Punjabi belongs to the Indo-Aryan language family but because of its tonal features it is different from other languages of the family. Every tonal aspect of [J]/h/, including most exceptions, has been experimentally examined. Words containing [J]/h/ in various positions have been recorded by native Punjabi (Malwai dialect) speakers. This data has been analyzed using speech analysis tools. Orthographically, [J] /h/ is used in all word positions i.e. initial, medial & final but is tonal in some cases. It has been pointed out in the literature on Punjabi linguistics Harkirat Singh (1991), Dr. Atam Singh (1993); it is pronounced at initial position but is tonal at medial and final position. Phonetically it is represented by a high rising tone /ó/ or low rising tone /ò/ on top of the accompanying vowel. Also, the pronunciation of [J] i.e. half /h/ is so weak that it is perceived as a tone which has also been experimentally verified. This analysis will aid the future speech researchers in building the Punjabi speech systems and speech data.