Tone patterns refer to the specific arrangements of pitch and intonation in spoken language. They play a crucial role in conveying meaning, emotion, and emphasis. Different languages, such as Mandarin or Thai, use tone patterns to distinguish between words that may otherwise sound similar. In addition to language, tone patterns can also be found in music, where variations in pitch create melodies and harmonies. Understanding tone patterns helps in effective communication, as they can alter the listener's perception of a message, making it essential for both verbal and non-verbal interactions.