What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intonation
Example
Her intonation rose at the end of the sentence, indicating a question. [intonation: noun]
Example
He spoke with a flat intonation, making it difficult to discern his meaning. [intonation: adjective]
modulation
Example
The singer's modulation of her voice added depth and emotion to the song. [modulation: noun]
Example
He modulated his voice to sound more authoritative. [modulated: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intonation is more commonly used than modulation in everyday language, particularly in discussions of language and communication. Modulation is more commonly used in discussions of music and sound engineering.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intonation and modulation?
Both intonation and modulation can be used in formal and informal contexts, but intonation is more commonly used in everyday language and may be considered more informal than modulation, which is often associated with music and technical sound engineering.
