graphic_eq Alphabet and tones
The 4 tones of Fongbe
fɔ̀ngbè is a tone language: the pitch of the voice changes the meaning of a word. The 4 tones (high, low, rising, falling) are written with accents. The same word with 4 different tones = 4 meanings.
High — á
The high tone, marked by an acute accent (á), is pronounced higher than the neutral voice. Examples:
Low — à
The low tone, marked by a grave accent (à), is lower than the neutral voice.
Minimal pair
atɔ́ɔ́n (5, high tone) vs atɔ̀n (3, low tone): same sound, same spelling except for the tone. In a number, getting the tone wrong = getting the number wrong.
Rising (ǎ) and falling (â)
The rising and falling tones are rarer but distinctive:
Contrasting examples:
Listen more than you explain
Tones are mastered by listening. Listen to each Fon word 3 times before repeating it — your ear will learn faster than any rule.
You’ve just read the lesson. Now listen to it.
This article gives you the forms. The Parlons Fongbe Academy gives you the voice: 79 video lessons with a native speaker from Cotonou, every tone pronounced, every sentence repeated until your ear can follow.
One free trial lesson when you sign up.
- Getting started in Fon: the 4-step method — tones, first words, resources
- The Fon video course: see the program — 79 lessons with a native speaker from Cotonou, taught in French
- What is your Fon level? — the free 15-question test