Average Speaking Frequencies refer to the typical fundamental frequency (F₀) ranges produced during conversational speech, measured in Hertz (Hz). While the average speaking frequency of an individual has limited diagnostic value on its own, it plays a crucial role in research on human communication, vocal physiology, sex-based differences, and identity perception.
The table below presents speaking pitch data for male and female speakers across low, average, and high pitch conditions, including mean frequencies, standard deviations, and observed ranges:
| Pitch Category | Men: Mean (Hz) | SD | Range (Hz) | Women: Mean (Hz) | SD | Range (Hz) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Low Speaking Pitch | 101 | 10 | 82–124 | 182 | 22 | 134–214 |
| Average Speaking Pitch | 116 | 12 | 93–135 | 205 | 24 | 162–238 |
| High Speaking Pitch | 155 | 19 | 122–191 | 261 | 30 | 204–309 |
These averages highlight a substantial difference between groups: men, on average, speak at a pitch approximately 89 Hz lower than women. This difference contributes to many of the acoustic cues listeners rely on to infer sex, gender, age, and vocal identity.
Understanding these frequency norms is essential in contexts such as voice pedagogy, speech-language pathology, gender-affirming voice training, and vocal health monitoring.
Reference:
Holmberg, E.B., Hillman, R.E., & Perkell, J.S. (1989). Glottal airflow and transglottal air pressure measurements for male and female speakers in low, normal, and high pitch. Journal of Voice, 3(4), 294–305. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0892-1997(89)80051-7
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