cadence
KAY-dunss
/ˈkeɪ.dəns/
A rhythmic sequence, modulation, or inflection of the voice in speaking or reading.
Emphasizes the natural, melodic rise and fall of speech rather than a rigid metrical structure.
The story behind the word. From Italian 'cadenza' and Latin 'cadere' (to fall), describing the falling tone or resolution of a voice or musical phrase at the end of a sentence.
Word relationships
- rhythm: 'Rhythm' is the overall beat pattern, whereas 'cadence' implies natural melodic rise and fall.
- monotone: Monotone lacks inflection or cadence entirely.
Commonly confused with
- meter: Meter is strict formal count; cadence is natural voice inflection.
Word family
- cadenced (adjective): Having a rhythmic cadence.
Collocations
- rhythmic cadence
- natural cadence
- cadence of speech
- falling cadence
Example sentences
- "The orator spoke with a rhythmic cadence that captivated every listener in the hall." Speechwriting
Memory hook
CADENCE is like a singer's voice 'falling' into place gracefully. Melodic voice rhythm.
When not to use
Avoid using 'cadence' to describe strict mechanical counting; it implies organic musicality.
Fun facts
- In music, a cadence is the closing sequence of chords that resolves a phrase.
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