tempi

Definition
  1. Noun (plural of ):
    • Musical speed or pace: "tempi" refers to the plural form of "tempo," indicating the speed or pace at which a piece of music is played, as measured in beats per minute.
    • General rate or rhythm: In a broader sense, "tempi" can describe the rate or pace of any activity or process, especially in artistic or literary contexts.
Usage Examples

  • Musical context:

    • The conductor adjusted the tempi of the symphony to bring out the emotional contrasts. (The speeds of different sections were changed for effect.)
    • The piece requires a wide range of tempi, from very slow to very fast. (Multiple speeds are needed throughout the composition.)

  • General context:

    • The novel's narrative tempi shift between slow, reflective passages and rapid, action-packed scenes. (The pacing of the story changes.)
Advanced Usage

  • "in different tempi": used to describe variations in speed or rhythm within a single work.

    • The dance routine was performed in different tempi to match the music's changes. (The speed of the dance altered.)

  • "tempi markings": specific notations in sheet music indicating the desired speed.

    • The composer wrote precise tempi markings for each movement. (Indications like "Allegro" or "Adagio.")
Variants and Related Words

  • Tempo (n, singular): the speed at which a piece of music is played.

    • The tempo of the waltz was too fast for the dancers. (The singular form of tempi.)

  • Temporal (adj): relating to time or speed.

    • The temporal changes in the music were carefully planned. (Pertaining to timing.)
Synonyms
  • Speeds: rates of motion or progress.
  • Paces: the rate at which something moves or happens.
  • Rhythms: patterns of movement or sound at a particular speed.
Phrasal Verbs
Related Idioms

  • "Keep a steady tempo": to maintain a consistent pace.

    • The drummer kept a steady tempo throughout the song. (Maintained a regular speed.)

  • "Change tempo": to alter the speed or rhythm of an activity.

    • The team changed tempo in the second half to surprise the opponents. (Shifted pace.)