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leitmotif

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Leitmotif (noun)

Definition: A "leitmotif" is a short musical phrase or melody that is repeated throughout a piece of music, especially in operas or films, to represent a specific character, idea, or situation. When you hear that melody, you immediately think of the character or concept it is connected to.

Usage Instructions: You can use "leitmotif" when talking about music, films, or literature, especially when discussing how certain themes or characters are represented through recurring sounds or phrases.

Example: In the movie "Star Wars," the music that plays every time Darth Vader appears is a leitmotif. It makes the audience think of him and his presence.

Advanced Usage: In literature or storytelling, "leitmotif" can also refer to a recurring theme or idea that appears throughout a story, not just in music. For instance, if a particular color is mentioned every time a character is sad, that color could be considered a leitmotif for sadness.

Word Variants: - The plural form is "leitmotifs." - No common derivations exist in English, as "leitmotif" is a specific term borrowed from German.

Different Meanings: While "leitmotif" is primarily used in the context of music and storytelling, it can also refer to any recurring theme or element in various forms of art or media.

Synonyms: Some synonyms for "leitmotif" include "theme," "motive," or "refrain," though these words can have slightly different meanings depending on the context.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "leitmotif," but it often appears in discussions about themes or motifs in creative works.

Summary: Remember, a "leitmotif" is like a special musical sign that helps you recognize a character or theme whenever it appears.

Noun
  1. a melodic phrase that accompanies the reappearance of a person or situation (as in Wagner's operas)

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