Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Relating to, written for, or composed in the style of a chorus, particularly the chorus in ancient Greek drama.

Usage

• The word choric is used to describe artistic works, language, or elements that are characteristic of or intended for a chorus. It is a specialized, formal term most commonly applied in literary, dramatic, and musical criticism.

Examples

• The poet employed a choric voice to comment on the action, much like in classical Greek plays.
• The choric odes in the tragedy provide a collective moral perspective on the events.
• His writing has a distinctly choric quality, with repetitive, communal refrains.

Advanced Usage

• Choric function: Refers to the role of the chorus or a chorus-like element in a narrative, often to provide commentary, summarize events, or express communal emotion.
  • The novel uses a group of townspeople as a choric function to narrate the town's history.
• Choric speech/dialogue: Language that is meant to be spoken or sung by a group, characterized by rhythmic or repetitive patterns.
  • The playwright wrote choric dialogue for the opening scene to establish a sense of community.

Variants and Related Words

• Chorally (adverb): In a manner relating to a chorus.
  • The piece was composed chorally.
• Chorus (noun): A group of performers who comment on the main action, typically in ancient Greek drama; a group of singers.
• Choral (adjective): Relating to or sung by a choir or chorus.
  • Note: While 'choral' refers broadly to singing groups (choirs), 'choric' specifically evokes the stylistic and functional role of the chorus in classical Greek drama.

Synonyms

• Choral (in some contexts, though less specific to Greek drama)
• Communal (when referring to the collective voice)
• Responsorial (involving alternating parts, like between a leader and a chorus)

Antonyms

• Solo (performed by a single individual)
• Monologic (in the form of a single, uninterrupted speech)

Related Phrases/Idioms

• Choric commentary: A narrative or dramatic technique where a group voice offers observations on the plot.
  • The film used a choric commentary through a Greek chorus to explain the hero's fate.

Adjective

1. relating to or written for or in the style of a Greek chorus
   • a choric Greek tragedy