tone, accent, harmonize, week

調 is composed of 言 (speech) and 周 (thorough). The upper part of 周 depicts a field densely planted with crops, meaning complete and dense, and extends to the sense of moderation or appropriateness. Therefore, 調 conveys the idea of appropriate words or speech, and means musical pitch or the accent of speech. Appropriate words make the listener feel harmonious and agreeable; if one wishes one’s speech to be appropriate, one must first organize it before opening one’s mouth.