* Phonemes are the basic units of sound. They are distinct sounds that contribute to meaning in a language. Think of the difference between "cat" and "cot," the /k/ and /t/ sounds are phonemes.
* Suprasegmentals are features that extend beyond individual sounds. They are aspects of speech that influence how phonemes are pronounced and how they are perceived, impacting the rhythm, stress, and intonation of language.
Examples of suprasegmentals include:
* Stress: The emphasis placed on a syllable within a word, as in "REcord" vs. "reCORD."
* Intonation: The rise and fall of pitch in speech, used to convey emotions or to distinguish between statements and questions.
* Tone: A feature of some languages where pitch variation within a word can change its meaning.
* Length: The duration of a sound, which can be used to distinguish between phonemes in some languages.
So, while we talk about *suprasegmental features* which affect the overall sound and meaning of speech, we don't typically refer to *suprasegmental phonemes*.
Instead, you might hear the terms:
* Prosodic features: A broader term encompassing features like stress, intonation, and rhythm.
* Suprasegmental phonology: The study of how these features work within a language.
In summary, while phonemes are the building blocks of language, suprasegmentals add layers of meaning and complexity by influencing how those sounds are produced and interpreted.