Breathy Voice

Detailed Explanation:

A breathy voice is a vocal quality where excessive air escapes during phonation, resulting in a soft, airy sound. This may be a stylistic choice in singing, but when persistent in speech, it may indicate vocal fold weakness, incomplete closure, or a voice disorder. Breathy voice quality can affect clarity and vocal stamina.

Examples of Breathy Voice:

• A singer intentionally using breathiness for stylistic effect.

• A teacher experiencing vocal fatigue and sounding airy after a long day.

• A patient with vocal cord paralysis producing a consistently breathy tone.

Related Terms:

• Dysphonia

• Vocal Fold Paralysis

• Muscle Tension Dysphonia

• Voice Therapy

Frequently Asked Questions About Breathy Voice:

1. What is a breathy voice?
   It’s when too much air escapes during speech, creating a soft, airy vocal quality.

2. What causes breathy voice?
   It may be caused by vocal fold weakness, incomplete closure, or medical conditions.

3. Is breathy voice always a disorder?
   No, it can be stylistic, but when persistent, it may signal a problem.

4. How is it treated?
   Voice therapy and medical evaluation can address underlying issues.

5. Can breathy voice damage vocal health?
   Prolonged strain without treatment can worsen vocal fatigue or disorders.