ritenuto

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The word "ritenuto" is a musical term that comes from Italian, and it is often used in music to describe a specific way to play or sing a piece of music.

Basic Explanation:

• Definition: "Ritenuto" means to gradually slow down the tempo (the speed) of the music. It tells the musician to take their time and play more slowly than before.
• Usage: You would see "ritenuto" in sheet music, and when you see it, you should start to slow down the music.

Example:

• If a piece of music starts at a fast tempo, but then has a "ritenuto" marking, the musician will gradually slow down as they play. So, if you were playing a piano piece, you might start playing quickly and then, when you reach the "ritenuto" part, you would slow down.

Advanced Usage:

• In more complex music compositions, "ritenuto" can be used to create emotional effects, allowing a performer to express feelings through changes in tempo. For example, slowing down can add drama or weight to a particular moment in the music.

Word Variants:

• The word "ritardando" is another musical term that is similar to "ritenuto," but it means to gradually slow down the tempo more consistently over time, rather than just at a specific point.

Different Meanings:

• "Ritenuto" is primarily used in the context of music. It does not have widely recognized meanings outside of music terminology.

Synonyms:

• Musical synonyms:
  • Ritardando (though it has a slightly different meaning)
  • Lento (which means slow)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Since "ritenuto" is a specialized musical term, it doesn't have idioms or phrasal verbs associated with it. However, musicians often use phrases like "take it slow" when discussing how to approach a "ritenuto" passage.

Summary:

"Ritenuto" is an important term in music that tells musicians to gradually slow down the tempo.

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Adjective

1. gradually decreasing in tempo

Synonyms

• rallentando
• ritardando
• rit.