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It is pretty much pronounced like the word "I". However, since Chinese is a tonal language, the meaning of each word depends on the tone of voice and pitch. It's hard to explain simply, but the word/name "ai" has a falling tone -- it goes from a higher pitch to a low one. Using an English example, suppose I ask you "Where?" My voice goes up on the question. If you then point to the place I was asking about and say "There," your voice would naturally use a "falling tone."

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I don't know if you care this much about the details, but it is absolutely crucial in Chinese to get the tones right so it's worth mentioning.

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~ Caitlín

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This message was edited 7/25/2007, 11:34 AM