Explanation

Emphatic stress emphasizes a particular word to change or clarify meaning. “I didnt say he stole the money” has seven different meanings depending on which word is stressed.

Stress “I” = someone else said it. Stress “say” = I implied it. Stress “he” = someone else stole it. Stress “stole” = he did something else with it.

In questions, stressed word indicates the specific information being asked. Listen for emphasis to understand exactly what is being questioned or contrasted.