symphony
/ˈsɪmfəni/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈsɪmfəni/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈsim(p)-fə-nē/ (ame, mw)
symphony — noun
- symphonysingular
- symphoniesplural
1. a long musical composition written to be performed by a large orchestra, usually
a long musical composition written to be performed by a large orchestra, usually divided into several separate parts called movements
The conductor led the orchestra through Beethoven's Symphony No. 5 with great energy.
possessive + composer's name + Symphony + number
Yuki listened to a symphony by Mahler while studying for her history exam.
a symphony by + [composer]
The composer spent nearly a decade writing his first symphony before its premiere.
During the symphony's slow movement, several people in the audience began to cry.
Christopher could recognize any symphony by Tchaikovsky after just a few notes.
- orchestral work
broader term; any piece written for an orchestra, not necessarily in symphonic form
- symphonic composition
slightly more formal term for a symphony
- sonata
similar structure but written for a solo instrument or small ensemble, not a full orchestra
文法句型
possessive + symphony + number (Beethoven's Fifth Symphony)
symphony in + key + number (symphony in C minor)
用法筆記
When referring to a specific numbered symphony, the word and number are usually capitalized and preceded by the composer's name: Beethoven's Fifth Symphony, Mahler's Symphony No. 2.
常見錯誤
2. a large orchestra that regularly performs classical music, especially symphonies
a large orchestra that regularly performs classical music, especially symphonies, or the organization that runs such an orchestra
The city symphony is looking for a new conductor to lead next season's concerts.
the + [city] + symphony
Aylin auditioned for the symphony and was offered a position as second violinist.
audition for + the symphony
Our local symphony performs free concerts in the park every summer evening.
Donations from the community helped the symphony buy new instruments for the string section.
Tariq's grandmother played in a symphony for over forty years before she retired.
- orchestra
broader term; any group of musicians playing together, not necessarily a symphony orchestra
- philharmonic
a type of symphony orchestra; the terms are largely interchangeable in modern usage
- symphony orchestra
the full, formal name for this type of musical group
文法句型
the + [city] + symphony
symphony + verb (audition / perform / tour)
用法筆記
In this sense, 'symphony' is a shortened form of 'symphony orchestra.' It usually refers to the organization as a whole — including the musicians, management, and administration — not just the group of players on stage.