ritenuto
Definition
Adjective 1. Gradually decreasing in tempo: A musical direction indicating that the music should slow down immediately and be held back. It is an instruction for a sudden, often more pronounced, slowing of the tempo compared to ritardando.
Usage
The word "ritenuto" is used almost exclusively as a musical term. It is an instruction written on a musical score, typically abbreviated as "rit." or "riten." It directs the performer to slow the tempo at that point.
Examples
- The score clearly indicated a ritenuto at the end of the phrase, creating a dramatic pause.
- The conductor signaled for a ritenuto as the orchestra approached the final, solemn chords.
- Play this section with a ritenuto feeling, holding back the tempo for emphasis.
Advanced Usage
- As an adverb: While primarily an adjective, it can function adverbially in the context of performance instruction.
- The violins played the passage ritenuto.
- Comparative/Superlative: Rarely used, but theoretically possible in descriptive language about music.
- The most ritenuto section of the piece is at the climax.
Variants and Related Words
- Ritenuto (abbr. "rit.", "riten."): The standard form.
- Ritenuto sempre: A direction meaning "held back continuously" or "always slower."
- Ritardando (ritard.): A related term meaning "gradually slowing down," but typically implying a more gradual deceleration than the often more immediate "ritenuto."
Synonyms
- Slowed
- Held back
- Rallentando (rall.) – another term for gradually slowing, often interchangeable with ritardando.
- Ritardando (ritard.) – gradually slowing.
Antonyms
- Accelerando (accel.) – gradually speeding up.
- Affrettando – hurrying, becoming faster.
- A tempo – returning to the original tempo.
Adjective
-
gradually decreasing in tempo
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