semplice
Definition
- Adjective (Music):
- In a simple, plain, or unadorned style: "semplice" is an Italian musical term used as a direction indicating that a passage should be performed in a straightforward, natural manner, without excessive ornamentation or emotional complexity. It is often applied to tempo, dynamics, or expression.
Usage Examples
- (The score instructs the musician to play simply, without added decoration.)
- (The performance was plain and unaffected, emphasizing clarity over drama.)
Advanced Usage
- "semplice ma non troppo": simple, but not excessively so.
- The conductor requested the phrase "semplice ma non troppo," meaning the passage should be simple but retain some subtle nuance. (A balanced approach between plainness and slight expressiveness.)
Variants and Related Words
Semplicità (n): the quality of being simple; simplicity.
- The music's semplicità gave it a timeless appeal. (The straightforwardness of the piece made it enduring.)
Semplicemente (adv): simply; in a simple manner.
- She played the scale semplicemente, without any vibrato. (She executed the scale in a plain, unadorned style.)
Synonyms
- Simple: easy to understand or perform; not complex.
- Plain: lacking embellishment or decoration.
- Unadorned: without added ornamentation.
Related Idioms
- "In a semplice style": performed with straightforwardness and lack of affectation.
- The aria was sung in a semplice style, focusing on pure tone and clear phrasing. (The vocal performance was natural and unforced.)
Note: "Semplice" is primarily used in musical contexts and is not commonly employed in everyday English conversation. Its meaning is tied to performance instructions in sheet music.