symphony
SIM-fuh-nee
/ˈsɪm.fə.ni/
An elaborate, large-scale musical composition for full orchestra, typically divided into multiple movements.
Denotes a major orchestral form and, metaphorically, an intricate, harmonious blend of diverse elements.
The story behind the word. From Ancient Greek 'symphonia', meaning 'agreement of sound' or 'concert of voices', joining 'syn-' (together) and 'phone' (sound). It evolved through European history into the primary large orchestral form.
Word relationships
- orchestral work: Orchestral work applies to any composition for orchestra, whereas symphony refers to a specific structured multi-movement form.
- concerto: A concerto highlights a featured solo instrument backed by an orchestra, unlike a symphony.
- solo: A solo is performed by a single musician without full orchestral instrumentation.
Commonly confused with
- philharmonic: Philharmonic refers to the orchestra organization, while symphony refers to the musical piece itself.
Word family
- symphonic (adjective): Relating to or having the form of a symphony.
- symphonist (noun): A composer of symphonies.
Collocations
- symphony orchestra
- choral symphony
- composed a symphony
Idioms & expressions
- symphony of colors
Example sentences
- "The orchestra performed Beethoven's Ninth Symphony to a standing ovation at the hall." Classical music performance
Memory hook
SYN (together) + PHONE (sound) = SIMULTANEOUS grand orchestra sound. Grand multi-movement orchestral masterpiece.
When not to use
Do not use for a simple short solo piece or acoustic song for a single instrument.
Fun facts
- Joseph Haydn is known as the 'Father of the Symphony' after writing 104 symphonies and standardizing the classical four-movement structure.
Related words
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