nasal voice

[/ˈneɪzəl vɔɪs/]
nounpl: nasal voices
voz nasal
1. A voice quality characterized by sound resonating through the nose rather than the mouth, often perceived as unpleasant or distinctive
The singer's nasal voice made it difficult for the audience to enjoy the performance.
A voz nasal do cantor tornou difícil para a plateia apreciar a apresentação.
2. Speech in which nasal consonants (m, n, ng) are excessively pronounced or where oral sounds are produced with nasal resonance
His nasal voice became more pronounced when he had a cold.
Sua voz nasal ficou mais pronunciada quando ele estava resfriado.
In Brazilian culture, a nasal voice is often perceived negatively and may be associated with regional accents, health conditions (such as nasal congestion), or poor speech training. In music and performance contexts, singers often receive coaching to eliminate nasal resonance to achieve better vocal projection and tonal quality. The term is commonly used in speech-language pathology and voice coaching.
NYC Slang
honker (informal term for nasal-sounding voice)
Synonyms / Sinônimos
nasal tonenasalized voicetwangy voiceadenoidal voice
Antonyms / Antônimos
clear voiceresonant voiceoral voice

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
voz nasal
Common term used in speech pathology and general discourse
Rio de Janeiro
voz nasal / sotaque nasalado
Sometimes associated with regional speech patterns
São Paulo
voz nasal
Standard usage in urban areas
Portugal
voz nasal
Similar usage; Portuguese has inherent nasal vowels affecting perception

Related Words

nasalizationnasal resonancespeech qualityvoice timbrephonationarticulation

Related Idioms & Phrases

to speak through one's nose
nasal twang
pinched voice
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