high and level
Keep the voice steady, like holding one clean musical note.
Pronunciation guide
Mandarin tone guide
Tones are not decoration. They change meaning. This page should teach learners how each tone feels, sounds, and moves.
rising
Start mid and rise naturally, like asking a short question.
low dip
Stay low and relaxed; do not over-dramatise the curve in normal speech.
sharp fall
Start high and drop quickly, with energy but not anger.