RT Journal Article SR Electronic(1) A1 Robles-Puente, Sergio YR 2021 T1 Vocative melodies in Spanish and English: A cross-linguistic analysis JF Languages in Contrast VO 21 IS 2 SP 250 OP 274 DO https://doi.org/10.1075/lic.19023.rob PB John Benjamins SN 1387-6759, AB Abstract

This study aims to describe the melodic contours used in Spanish and English calling vocatives in order to identify cross-linguistic similarities and differences. Additionally, it also explores how the sociopragmatic factor of formality may condition contour choices in both languages. 18 speakers of Spanish and 18 speakers of English produced a total of 432 one-word vocatives in formal and informal situations. The analyses of the F0 contours revealed that, although Spanish and English share multiple melodies in this speech act (e.g. L+H* L%, L* H% and L+H* !H%), some tones are language-specific (e.g. L+H* HL% for Spanish). In addition, a General Linear Mixed Model confirmed that these contours are not equally attested in all contexts and that the formality of the situation can condition their use., UL https://www.jbe-platform.com/content/journals/10.1075/lic.19023.rob