English Reference

Word

unaccompanied

Phoneticsun·ac·com·pa·nied, stress on the third syllable

US/ˌənəˈkəmpənid/

UK/ʌnɐkˈʌmpənɪd/

Definition

adj. describing a piece of music that does not have any other instruments or voices playing with it. It is often used to describe a solo performance.

adj. not accompanied by other instruments or voices. Often used to describe a solo performance or a musical piece performed without a supporting ensemble.

Examples

“The pianist played an unaccompanied piece during the concert.”

“The violinist performed an unaccompanied sonata, relying solely on the resonance of the strings and the acoustics of the hall.”

“While the rest of the orchestra provided a lush harmonic backdrop, the lead soprano delivered an unaccompanied aria that showcased her vocal range and emotional depth.”

Examples

simple

“The pianist played an unaccompanied piece during the concert.”

contextual

“The violinist performed an unaccompanied sonata, relying solely on the resonance of the strings and the acoustics of the hall.”

complex

“While the rest of the orchestra provided a lush harmonic backdrop, the lead soprano delivered an unaccompanied aria that showcased her vocal range and emotional depth.”

Real-World Examples

“Most have since returned to Morocco, but between 5-10% of those who entered – between 3,500 and 7,000 people – remain in Ceuta, including unaccompanied children.”
The Guardian 25 Aug 2026
“However, under Spanish law, the state has a duty of care to young, unaccompanied migrants until they reach the age of 18.”
The Guardian 19 Aug 2026

Etymology

From un- + accompanied.

Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.

Domain

Music

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Frequency
Occasional
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference