Concert Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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concert

[ˈkɒnsət ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

music

A musical performance given in public, typically by several performers or of several compositions.

Synonyms

performance, recital, show.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
concert

A musical event where musicians perform, typically with a large audience. Used for genres like classical, rock, pop, etc.

  • I bought tickets to the Coldplay concert next month.
  • The orchestra's annual concert drew a huge crowd.
performance

A broader term that can refer to any presentation before an audience, including plays, dances, and musical acts. Suitable for general use.

  • Her performance in the lead role was outstanding.
  • We attended a ballet performance last Saturday.
recital

A formal presentation by a soloist or a small group, often in the context of classical music or ballet. Generally, more intimate and serious.

  • She played beautifully at her piano recital.
  • The dance school's annual recital showcases the students' progress.
show

Casual and general term for any entertainment event, including concerts, theater, magic acts, and more. Often used in informal settings.

  • We went to the magic show over the weekend.
  • Her new show on Broadway is a big hit.

Examples of usage

  • The concert was sold out weeks in advance.
  • She attended a classical music concert last night.
  • The band played a three-hour concert for their fans.
  • We enjoyed a fantastic outdoor concert in the park.
  • The concert hall was filled with enthusiastic spectators.
Context #2 | Noun

event

A public show or performance, typically held in a large venue and featuring a variety of acts.

Synonyms

event, gig, show.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
concert

A general term for a musical performance, usually involving a large audience, often for classical, pop, or rock music.

  • We're going to a classical music concert this weekend.
  • The concert was held in a large outdoor stadium.
event

A broad term that encompasses various types of organized activities, not limited to musical performances. This can include conferences, weddings, sports events, and community gatherings.

  • The charity event raised a lot of money for the cause.
  • They are planning a big event for the grand opening of the store.
gig

Informal term used mostly in the context of smaller, casual performances, often in bars, clubs, or smaller venues, typically for rock, pop, or indie bands.

  • Our band has a gig at the local pub tonight.
  • She landed her first gig at a small coffeehouse.
show

A versatile term often used for various types of performances, including music, theater, or television programs. It can be used informally or formally.

  • He's performing in a magic show downtown.
  • We got tickets to the Broadway show that everyone's talking about.

Examples of usage

  • The charity concert raised thousands of dollars for the cause.
  • The music festival included concerts from various artists.
  • They organized a free concert in the city square.
  • I'm looking forward to the summer concert series.
  • The concert was a celebration of cultural diversity.
Context #3 | Verb

plan

To plan and carry out a public musical performance or show.

Synonyms

arrange, organize, plan.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
concert

Used to describe a musical performance or event involving musicians and audience. It refers specifically to a formal or public musical show.

  • We are going to a concert at the park tonight.
  • She bought tickets for a jazz concert next weekend.
plan

Used when you are deciding in advance what you want to do and how you will do it. It generally refers to the process of creating a detailed proposal for doing or achieving something.

  • We need to plan our vacation carefully to stay within budget.
  • He plans to start his own business next year.
organize

Commonly used when you need to bring order or structure to something, especially events, activities, or groups. It implies a higher level of coordination and planning.

  • They organized a charity event for the local community.
  • We need to organize our files before the audit.
arrange

Used when you have to set up or make plans for something, usually involving coordination or organization, not limited to musical events.

  • They arranged a meeting with the new clients.
  • She arranged the flowers beautifully on the table.

Examples of usage

  • They are going to concert a series of performances throughout the year.
  • She is currently concerting a benefit concert for the local community.
  • The orchestra has been concerting their upcoming season for months.
  • He concerted the details of the concert with the venue staff.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The term 'concert' derives from the Latin word 'concertare,' meaning to bring together, emphasizing the communal aspect of music.
  • Concerts have evolved from intimate gatherings in homes during the 17th century to massive stadium events today.
  • The first public concert hall, the Concert Spirituel, opened in Paris in 1725, allowing everyday people to enjoy live music.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, concerts are vital for community bonding and celebrating shared experiences.
  • Music festivals, a type of concert, attract global audiences, often featuring diverse genres reflecting cultural identities.
  • Concerts serve as platforms for social movements, with artists using their performances to raise awareness for various causes.

Science of Music

  • Listening to live music, like at a concert, releases dopamine in the brain, making people feel happier and more connected.
  • Studies show that attending concerts can reduce stress and improve overall mental well-being.
  • Live music engages our auditory senses differently than recorded music, enhancing emotional responses.

Pop Culture

  • Iconic events like Live Aid in 1985 used concerts to raise funds and awareness for famine relief, changing how music impacts society.
  • The evolution of technology has transformed concerts, with many artists now using elaborate visual effects and live streaming for global fans.
  • Coachella and Glastonbury are among the biggest music festivals worldwide, drawing thousands and showcasing various genres and art.

Educational Impact

  • Concerts provide an opportunity for musicians to practice and refine their skills in front of an audience, contributing to an artist's growth.
  • Schools use concerts to foster musical education, helping students learn teamwork, discipline, and confidence.
  • Attending concerts can spark interest in musical careers, encouraging young people to explore creative paths.

Origin of 'concert'

The word 'concert' originated from the Latin word 'concertare', which means 'to contend, dispute, debate, fight'. Over time, it evolved to refer to a harmonious agreement or cooperation, leading to its modern usage in the context of musical performances. The term was first used in English in the late 16th century to describe a harmonious combination of voices or instruments. Since then, 'concert' has become synonymous with live music events and public performances, showcasing the talents of musicians and artists.


See also: disconcert, disconcerting.

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,674 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.