eurhythmy (n.)

A principle proposed in METRICAL PHONOLOGY for the interpretation of METRICAL GRIDS, indicating which grids are possible and preferable. In particular, it ensures that STRINGS result in a preferred grid configuration (PERIODICITY), such as the tendency in English towards a particular spacing of STRESSED SYLLABLES (compare the more general notion of ISOCHRONY). The values of a rhythmic structure can be computed from the grid by a set of eurhythmic RULES; for example, these rules might require the equal spacing of grid marks at all levels, promoting a regular alternation. The status of the principle as an evaluative process is controversial.