Motif Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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motif
[moสหtiหf ]
Definitions
design
A motif is a recurring design or pattern in art or literature.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| motif |
Utilize 'motif' when discussing a recurring element or idea in art, literature, or music. It often refers to a specific feature that is repeated for symbolic meaning.
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| theme |
Select 'theme' when referring to the central topic, subject, or concept in a piece of writing, art, discussion, or event. It is commonly used in literary analysis, event planning, and website design.
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| pattern |
Opt for 'pattern' when describing a repeated decorative arrangement or a consistent characteristic in behavior or occurrences. This term is used in textiles, behavior analysis, and trends.
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| design |
Use 'design' typically in contexts that refer to the plan or arrangement of elements in a product, structure, or system. It's common in discussions related to architecture, fashion, engineering, and graphic arts.
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Examples of usage
- The motif of the tree of life can be found in many different cultures.
- The author uses the motif of the color red to symbolize passion and love in the novel.
music
In music, a motif is a short musical idea or phrase that is repeated and developed throughout a composition.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| motif |
A motif is a recurring element or idea in literature, art, or music. It often underpins the main theme and adds depth to the narrative or composition.
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| theme |
A theme is a central topic, subject, or concept in a piece of writing, art, or music. It is broader than a motif and usually represents the main idea or underlying message.
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| musical idea |
A musical idea is a brief, distinctive sequence of notes that can serve as the building block for longer musical compositions. It is less specific and formal than a motif.
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| phrase |
In music, a phrase is a small section of a melody, typically consisting of a few measures, that expresses a complete musical thought, similar to a sentence in language. In everyday use, it can also mean a short group of words expressing a concept.
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Examples of usage
- Beethoven's 5th Symphony is famous for its iconic motif of three short notes followed by one long note.
- The motif in the first movement is transformed and varied in the later movements of the symphony.
fashion
In fashion, a motif refers to a decorative element or design that is repeated throughout a garment or collection.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| motif |
Use 'motif' when referring to a recurring theme or element in art, literature, or music. It often carries a sophisticated or artistic connotation.
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| pattern |
Use 'pattern' when talking about a repeated decorative design or a regular sequence in behavior, events, or data. It can apply to visual designs and abstract concepts.
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| decoration |
Use 'decoration' when referring to items or embellishments that enhance the appearance of an object or space. It suggests an intention to beautify or adorn.
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| element |
Use 'element' when referring to a basic or essential part of something, especially when discussing components of a larger whole. It is more neutral and versatile.
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Examples of usage
- The designer incorporated a floral motif into the fabric of the dress.
- The runway show featured a motif of geometric shapes in the clothing.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Art & Literature
- Artists often use motifs to create unity in their work, like how Van Gogh repeated star patterns in his paintings.
- In literature, motifs can be symbols or themes that provide deeper meaning, such as the recurring imagery of darkness in Edgar Allan Poe's works.
Music
- Famous composers like Beethoven used motifs to build larger musical forms, making recognizable themes that resonate with listeners.
- Film scores often rely on motifs to associate specific musical themes with characters or events, enhancing emotional responses.
Cultural Significance
- Different cultures have distinct motifs in their folklore, like how snakes often symbolize transformation in various traditions.
- In fashion, motifs can express culture and identity, such as the floral patterns common in traditional Japanese kimonos.
Psychology
- Recurrent motifs can evoke memories and emotions, as they often relate to personal experiences, enhancing connection to art or music.
- Understanding motifs in communication can improve storytelling, as they help audiences emotionally engage with the narrative.
Origin of 'motif'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the French 'motif', meaning 'a pattern or design', which traces back to Latin 'motare', meaning 'to move'.
- In music, motifs can be short musical phrases that help create a song's identity and can be traced back to the Middle Ages.
The word "motif" originated in the late 19th century from the French word motif, meaning 'motive' or 'theme'. It was first used in the context of design and art, referring to a recurring pattern or design element. Over time, the term expanded to music and fashion, where it is used to describe a recurring theme or idea. Today, motif is a widely recognized term in various creative fields.