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Accompany Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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accompany

[əˈkʌmpəni ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

music

To perform a musical piece with another instrument or voice to enhance or support the main melody.

Synonyms

accompanying, back up, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
accompany

Use 'accompany' when you are talking about someone going with another person to a place or event. It can also be used when one thing happens at the same time as another.

  • She will accompany him to the doctor's appointment
  • The meal was accompanied by a glass of wine
accompanying

This word is often used as an adjective that describes something that comes with another thing. It can describe music, images, documents, or symptoms that appear together with something else.

  • The text had accompanying images
  • She had a headache with accompanying nausea
back up

This phrase is used when you are talking about providing additional support or evidence, often in a practical or emergency context, like computer files or in a disagreeable situation.

  • Always back up your files to prevent data loss
  • Can you back up your argument with data?
support

Use 'support' when you are talking about helping someone emotionally, financially, or physically. It covers a wide range of scenarios from moral support to logistical assistance.

  • Her family came to support her during the trial
  • The charity supports homeless people

Examples of usage

  • She will accompany the singer on the piano during the concert.
  • The violinist will accompany the orchestra in the symphony performance.
Context #2 | Verb

travel

To go somewhere with someone as a companion or escort.

Synonyms

accompanying, escort, go with.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
accompany

Used when someone goes somewhere with another person, especially to provide assistance or keep them company.

  • She appreciated it when he offered to accompany her to the doctor's appointment
escort

Typically used when someone is being guided or protected by another person or group. Often used in formal or protective scenarios.

  • The celebrity was escorted by bodyguards to avoid the paparazzi
go with

A casual way to say that one person will join or match with another. Can also refer to things that match or fit well together.

  • Do you want to go with me to the concert tonight?; These shoes go with that dress
accompanying

Describes something or someone that comes along with something else, often as a complement or to provide additional information.

  • The book comes with an accompanying CD of songs

Examples of usage

  • I will accompany you to the train station.
  • The bodyguard will accompany the celebrity to the event.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Music

  • In music, to accompany is to provide a background or support to a lead instrument or voice, enriching the overall sound.
  • Accompaniment in classical music often features chords played on an instrument like a piano alongside a singer.
  • The role of an accompanist is crucial in many musical performances, as they help to enhance and stabilize the main melody.

Literature

  • Many stories feature characters who accompany the hero on quests, symbolizing loyalty and support.
  • In poetry, accompanying images or metaphors can deepen the meaning and evoke strong feelings.
  • The concept of companionship often drives narratives, portraying the importance of relationships in human experiences.

Psychology

  • Accompanying someone can influence mood; support from friends or loved ones often increases happiness and reduces stress.
  • In therapy, a professional may accompany clients on their journey to self-discovery, offering necessary guidance.
  • Studies show that social interactions can improve mental health because they provide a sense of belonging and comfort.

Cultural Practices

  • In many cultures, it is common to accompany a guest with food, symbolizing hospitality and shared experiences.
  • Traditional dances often include accompanying music, bringing people together through coordinated movement and rhythm.
  • Ceremonies, such as weddings, often have accompanying rituals, highlighting cultural values and community bonds.

Origin of 'accompany'

Main points about word origin

  • The word originates from the Middle English 'acompanyen' which means to join or to be with someone.
  • It combines the Old French 'acompagner', formed from 'a' meaning 'to' and 'compagner' meaning 'to companion'.
  • The root word 'companion' comes from Latin, where 'com' means 'with' and 'panis' means 'bread', implying sharing meals together.

The word 'accompany' originated from the Middle English word 'acumpaignien' which came from the Old French word 'acompaignier', meaning 'to be a companion'. It first appeared in the English language in the 15th century. Over time, the meaning of 'accompany' evolved to include both musical and general companionship contexts.

See also: accompanied, accompaniment, accompanying, unaccompanied.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,940, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.