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prelude

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈprɪljuːd/

KK: /ˈprilud/

intransitive verb
Definition

To act as an introduction or something that comes before another event or action.


Example

The soft music played a prelude to the main performance.


Tense Forms

Past: preluded

Past Participle: preluded


Conversation
Sloth A
I heard the concert will prelude with an exciting light show.
Sloth B
That sounds awesome! I love when they do something special before the main act.
Sloth A
Yeah, it really sets the mood for the whole night.
Sloth B
Absolutely! It makes the experience even more memorable.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
introduce
precede
herald
Antonyms
follow
conclude
terminate
noun
Definition

An introductory event or piece of music that comes before something more important or significant.


Example

The concert began with a beautiful prelude that set the mood for the evening.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear the prelude they played before the main concert?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was such a nice way to set the mood for the evening.
Sloth A
I loved how the prelude really drew everyone in.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To introduce something in a way that prepares for what comes next.


Example

The soft music preluded the start of the ceremony.


Tense Forms

Past: preluded

Past Participle: preluded


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you catch the new song they released yesterday?
Sloth B
Not yet, but I heard it’s a great prelude to their upcoming album.
Sloth A
I think it really preludes the vibe they’re going for this time.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Prelude → It is formed from "pre-" (meaning before) and "ludere" (meaning to play). The word "prelude" refers to something that is played or occurs before the main event or performance.

Memory Tip

Think of something that happens 'before' ('pre-') the main 'play' ('ludere') — that's why a prelude is an introduction to what follows.

Visually Confused Words
preclude
predelude
preallude
prude
elude
unpreluded
preinclude
precollude
Is this page helpful?
Exactly! It made the whole performance feel more special.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
introduction
foreword
overture
Antonyms
conclusion
epilogue
aftermath
Yeah, I can’t wait to hear the whole thing!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
introduce
precede
initiate
Antonyms
follow
conclude
terminate