sforzando
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /sfɔrˈtsændoʊ/
KK: /sfɔrˈtsændoʊ/
adjective
Definition
A term used in music to indicate that a note should be played with strong emphasis or force.
Example
The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the passage sforzando to create a dramatic effect.
Conversation
Did you notice how that piece had a lot of sforzando passages?
Yeah, it really added some intensity to the performance!
Exactly! I love when composers use sforzando to emphasize certain notes.
Me too! It makes the music so much more engaging.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
emphatic
forceful
intense
Antonyms
soft
gentle
subdued
adverb
Definition
A musical term that indicates a sudden or strong emphasis on a note or chord, often used as a direction for performers.
Example
The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the passage sforzando for dramatic effect.
Conversation
Did you hear the way she played that piece?
Yeah, it was amazing! She really added some sforzando moments.
I know, right? It made the performance so much more exciting.
noun
Definition
A musical term that indicates a note or chord should be played with a strong emphasis or attack.
Example
The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the passage with a sforzando to create a dramatic effect.
Conversation
Have you heard about the sforzando in that new piece we’re learning?
Yeah, I noticed it really adds some drama to the music.
Exactly! I love how the sforzando makes certain notes stand out.
Root Explanation
Sforzando is derived from the Italian word 'sforzare' (meaning to force or to exert), which itself comes from the Latin 'fortis' (meaning strong). The term is used in music to indicate a sudden, strong accent on a note or chord. Thus, 'sforzando' conveys the idea of forcing or emphasizing a musical note with strength.
Memory Tip
Imagine a musician 'forcing' ('sforzare') a note to stand out with strength — that's what 'sforzando' means in music.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.