Pieces Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

🧩
Add to dictionary

pieces

[ˈpiːsɪz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

of art

A work of art made by attaching pieces of different materials together.

Synonyms

artwork, composition, creation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
pieces

This word is repeated, so the context and examples are the same as the first entry.

  • She collected several pieces from the local art gallery.
  • The museum just acquired new pieces by contemporary artists.
artwork

Used when referring to visual art in general, such as paintings, drawings, or sculptures. It can also imply a single piece of art.

  • The gallery displayed new artwork by local artists.
  • He is known for his abstract artwork.
creation

Used when emphasizing the act of creating something or the result of a creative process, often sounding more abstract or grandiose.

  • The artist's latest creation took over a year to complete.
  • Every new creation shows his evolving style and technique.
composition

Often used to describe the arrangement and elements of a work of art. It can also be applied to music and literature.

  • The composition of this painting is stunning with its use of color and space.
  • Her latest music composition received great reviews.

Examples of usage

  • She creates beautiful pieces of art using recycled materials.
  • The museum has a collection of unique art pieces.
Context #2 | Noun

of music

A musical composition or performance.

Synonyms

composition, musical work, opus.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
pieces

Redundant entry; covered in the first definition.

composition

Used in formal or academic contexts, especially when talking about creating music or writing. It can also refer to music and writing works.

  • Her new composition was praised by the critics
  • Students should practice their composition skills to improve their writing
musical work

A formal term used to describe a piece of music in contexts such as classical music or legal discussions regarding music rights.

  • Beethoven's Ninth Symphony is a famous musical work
  • The musical work was registered for copyright protection
opus

Primarily used in classical music circles and refers to a significant and numbered work by a composer.

  • Mozart's Opus 40 is a well-known piece
  • The composer's latest opus was performed at the concert hall

Examples of usage

  • The orchestra played a beautiful piece by Mozart.
  • She composed a piece for piano and violin.
Context #3 | Noun

of information

A single item or part of a larger whole.

Synonyms

bit, item, part.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
pieces

Use when talking about parts of a whole that have been broken or divided.

  • She carefully gathered the pieces of the broken vase
  • The puzzle has 1000 pieces
item

Suitable for referring to individual objects, especially in a list or collection.

  • There are five items on today's agenda
  • She put each item into the shopping cart
part

Applicable when talking about a section or component of something larger, often mechanical or abstract.

  • This machine has many different parts
  • She played an important part in the success of the project
bit

Used for a small amount or a small piece of something, often informal.

  • Could you give me a bit of your sandwich? I need a bit more time to finish this

Examples of usage

  • He gave me a piece of advice.
  • Can you share a piece of news with me?

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Art

  • In visual art, fragmented styles like Cubism break objects into pieces to show multiple perspectives.
  • Artists often create 'mixed media' pieces, combining various materials to enhance texture and meaning.
  • The act of breaking objects into pieces can serve as a metaphor for deconstruction in contemporary art.

Psychology

  • In therapeutic practices, processing experiences in 'pieces' can help individuals cope with trauma by addressing parts rather than the whole.
  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy often breaks down overwhelming feelings into smaller parts for ease of understanding and handling.
  • Individuals might describe their lives in 'pieces' to highlight significant moments that define their personal narrative.

Literature

  • Many stories are told in 'pieces,' with narratives revealed through non-linear timelines and fragmented perspectives.
  • The use of short chapters or vignettes can create a compelling experience, allowing readers to piece together the story.
  • Authors like Virginia Woolf have famously employed stream-of-consciousness techniques, presenting thoughts as broken fragments.

Games

  • Literally, in games like chess or checkers, players use 'pieces' to strategize and compete against each other.
  • Jigsaw puzzles challenge players to assemble the pieces to finish a larger image, enhancing cognitive skills.
  • Board games often involve collecting pieces to advance, teaching strategic thinking and teamwork.

Origin of 'pieces'

Main points about word origin

  • The word traces back to the Old French word 'piece,' meaning a part of a whole.
  • Its roots can also be found in the Latin word 'pax,' which suggests a unit or portion.
  • In earlier usages, it referred to distinct segments of material or whole items.

The word 'pieces' originated from the Old French word 'piece', which meant a part or a share. Over time, the word evolved to refer to various types of parts or compositions, such as art pieces, musical pieces, and pieces of information. The term has been used in English since the Middle Ages, and its versatility in describing different forms of creations or components has made it a commonly used word in everyday language.


See also: apiece, piece.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,676, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.