# quartet

/kwɔɹˈtɛt/ (US) · /kwɔːtˈɛt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/quartet
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. musical group

noun · CEFR B2

a group of four musicians who play instruments or sing together.

For teachers: a musical ensemble consisting of four performers, or a musical composition written for such a group.

- The string quartet played beautiful music during the wedding ceremony.
- The jazz quartet spent the evening improvising over classic standards, with each member taking a turn to lead the melody.

### 2. group of four

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

any group of four people or things that belong together.

For teachers: a set or group of four related people or things.

- A quartet of researchers published the new study on climate change.
- The final quartet of candidates waited nervously in the lobby, each hoping to be the one selected for the executive position.

## Examples

- The string quartet played beautifully at the wedding.
- The jazz quartet consists of a pianist, a bassist, a drummer, and a saxophonist.
- The composer's final string quartet is celebrated for its intricate counterpoint and emotional depth, requiring four highly skilled musicians to navigate its technical demands.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.