Allegro is a musical term that is commonly used in the world of classical music. It is a term that describes the tempo or speed at which a piece of music is played. In this article, we will explore the definition and meaning of allegro, its origin, and its use in different dictionaries. We will also look at the associations, synonyms, antonyms, and root words of allegro, and provide some example sentences to help you understand how it is used in context.
Definitions
The term allegro is used to describe a fast and lively tempo in music. It is often used in classical music to indicate that a piece should be played quickly and with a sense of energy and excitement. The exact speed at which allegro is played can vary depending on the style of music and the composer’s intentions. However, it is generally considered to be faster than the tempo marked as “moderato” and slower than “presto.”
Origin
The term allegro comes from the Italian word “allegro,” which means “cheerful” or “lively.” It is derived from the Latin word “alacer,” which means “lively” or “brisk.” The term first appeared in music notation in the 17th century, and it has been used ever since to describe a fast and lively tempo.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, allegro is defined as “a musical composition or movement in allegro tempo.” The Oxford English Dictionary defines it as “a quick and lively tempo, typically associated with a fast-paced and energetic piece of music.” The Cambridge Dictionary defines it as “a musical piece or part of one that is played quickly and energetically.”
Associations
Allegro is often associated with music that is fast-paced, lively, and energetic. It is commonly used in classical music, but it can also be found in other genres such as jazz, rock, and pop. Allegro is often used to create a sense of excitement and movement in music, and it is often used in dance music to encourage people to move and dance.
Synonyms
Some synonyms for allegro include lively, brisk, fast, quick, and rapid.
Antonyms
Some antonyms for allegro include slow, moderate, and adagio.
The same root words
Some other words that share the same root as allegro include alacrity, which means “brisk and cheerful readiness,” and exhilarate, which means “to make someone feel very happy, animated, or elated.”
Example Sentences
- The orchestra played the allegro section of the symphony with great energy and precision.
- The jazz band played a lively allegro tune that got everyone dancing.
- The composer marked the piece as allegro, indicating that it should be played at a fast and energetic tempo.
- The conductor slowed down the tempo from allegro to moderato to create a more relaxed and contemplative mood.
- The pianist played the allegro section with incredible speed and dexterity, impressing the audience with her virtuosity.