register-tone language

In linguistics, tone refers to variations in vocal pitch that can distinguish word meanings or grammatical categories in certain languages, known as tone languages. For instance, the same syllable pronounced with different pitches can result in entirely different words, as seen in Mandarin Chinese where pitch changes can alter a word's meaning from "deceive" to "slow".1

There are two primary types of tone languages:
* Register-tone languages: These use steady pitches that differ in relative height (higher or lower).1
* Contour-tone languages: These involve pitch movements, such as rises and falls within a syllable.1

The term register in linguistics can also refer to a specific style of language used in particular social contexts or for formal occasions, as opposed to casual speech. This is distinct from the concept of tone in tone languages.2