For Day 30 of 30 Days of Intonation, we look at a useful expression that is perfectly appropriate for today:

That's it

On the last day of this program, we review the intonation patterns that can be used to create different meanings with this short two-word phrase.

As usual, we express the literal meaning of the phrase with neutral sentence intonation, ending with a slight fall.

You can also “signal” or point to another thing with your voice by stressing a different word in the phrase. Remember, shifting the expected sentence stress is a quick way to change the meaning.

You can also show uncertainty or disbelief by using rising intonation to check and confirm what you thought you heard.

(I imagine you are thinking "That's it?" in shock that this is the last day of the daily program! 😝)

As always, speaking with a higher pitch can indicate enthusiasm and excitement. Think of the relief after looking for something for a long time, or finding a long-awaited solution to a ongoing problem!

Last but not least, you can show finality and authority by using a steep drop with your intonation. You may need to demand that a group of people stop arguing, for example. With authoritative intonation, this phrase can be a strong call to end something.

Related Examples: