symphony
- 01 B1 Intermediate
a long piece of music for a large group of musicians, usually divided into several parts.
an elaborate musical composition for full orchestra, typically consisting of four movements in a specific structural form.
Simple“The orchestra practiced for weeks before performing Beethoven's ninth symphony.”
In context“The composer's final symphony was celebrated for its innovative use of choral elements within a traditionally instrumental framework.”
UsageOften used with a number or a name to identify the specific work.
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
a beautiful or pleasing combination of many different things, like colors or sounds.
a harmonious or impressive collection of diverse elements that work together effectively.
Simple“The garden was a symphony of bright colors in the springtime.”
In context“The chef described the dish as a symphony of flavors, balancing sharp acidity with rich, earthy undertones.”
Teacher's tipThis is a figurative use; learners should use it to describe something exceptionally well-coordinated or beautiful.
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
a short way to say 'symphony orchestra'.
a metonymic reference to a symphony orchestra.
Simple“She has been playing violin for the local symphony for ten years.”
In context“The city's symphony struggled to maintain its funding during the economic downturn, despite high ticket sales for the winter season.”
From Middle English symphonye, from Old French simphonie, from Latin symphonia, from Ancient Greek συμφωνία (sumphōnía). By surface analysis, sym- + -phony. Doublet of sinfonia, symphonia, tsampouna, and zampogna.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.