Prelude: meaning, definitions and examples

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prelude

[ˈprɛljuːd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

music

An introductory piece of music or a section that precedes the main theme.

Synonyms

introduction, overture, prologue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
prelude	Use this when referring to something that comes before and prepares the way for the main part of something larger, often in music or literature. The short story served as a prelude to the novel The symphony opened with a beautiful prelude
introduction	This is best for when you begin a book, speech, or other piece of writing by giving an overview or explanation ahead of the main content. It can also be used in social settings to present someone to others. The introduction of the book provided important context for the history that followed During the meeting, Mary gave an introduction for the guest speaker
overture	Typically used in the context of music, primarily classical, to describe the instrumental music played at the beginning of an opera or a long musical work. It can also mean an initial offer or approach in negotiations. The orchestra played the overture before the main act of the opera The company made an overture to buy its competitor
prologue	Usually found in literature and drama, referring to a section that precedes the main story, often setting the scene or providing background information. The Shakespearean play began with a prologue recited by a single character The novel's prologue explained the historical context of the story

Examples of usage

The prelude set the tone for the entire concert.
She played a beautiful prelude on the piano before the opera started.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

literature

An introductory part of a literary work, such as a novel or play, setting the scene or introducing the characters.

Synonyms

foreword, preface, prologue.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
prelude	Typically used to describe an action or event that precedes and introduces something more significant. Often used in the context of music or events. The prelude to the ceremony was a beautiful instrumental piece The speech served as a prelude to the main event
preface	Used to describe an introductory section written by the author themselves, providing context, background, or explanations about the book. In the preface, the author explains the inspiration behind the novel The preface offers insights into the themes explored in the chapters
foreword	This word is commonly used to denote a short introductory section written by someone other than the author, usually found in non-fiction books. In the foreword, the editor provides insight into the author's motivations The foreword by a prominent scholar adds credibility to the research
prologue	Generally used in literary works to describe an introductory section that sets the scene for the story, often providing background information or context. The prologue of the book gives a glimpse into the protagonist's childhood The play's prologue introduces the main conflict of the story

Examples of usage

The prelude of the book provided crucial background information.
The first chapter served as a prelude to the main events of the story.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

general

Something that serves as a preliminary to an event or action.

Synonyms

forerunner, harbinger, precursor.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
prelude	Used to describe an introductory event or action preceding a more significant one, often in the context of arts, music, or important events. The overture served as a prelude to the evening's performance. The sudden drop in temperature was a prelude to the harsh winter that followed.
precursor	Used to describe something that existed before and influenced the formation of a later development, often in scientific or technological contexts. The ancient abacus was a precursor to modern computing devices. Studies on gravitational theory served as a precursor to Einstein's theory of relativity.
harbinger	Often used in a more poetic or literary context to indicate a person or thing that announces the approach of another, typically something negative or momentous. The dark clouds were a harbinger of the approaching storm. The economic downturn was seen as a harbinger of harder times ahead.
forerunner	Used to describe something or someone that comes before another, often indicating the arrival of a new development or trend. The early engine models were the forerunners of today's modern cars. The invention of the telegraph was a forerunner to modern communication technologies.

Examples of usage

Their meeting was just a prelude to the negotiations that would follow.
The dark clouds were a prelude to the storm that was about to hit.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'praeludere', meaning 'to play beforehand', linking music with its introductory nature.
It has been used in English since the 15th century, primarily within musical contexts, to describe an opening piece.
In literature, 'prelude' can describe the introductory part of a poem or story that sets the stage for the main narrative.

Music

In classical music, a prelude is often a standalone piece performed before a larger work, setting the mood for what follows.
Famous composers, like Chopin and Bach, wrote preludes that are now staples in piano repertoire.
Many modern songs begin with a prelude that introduces the melody or themes of the song before the lyrics start.

Literature

In literary works, a prelude serves to provide context, mood, or background information that enhances the main text.
Some novels and plays include preludes that hint at themes or conflicts to arise later, engaging readers early on.
Renowned authors like William Wordsworth have written works titled 'Prelude', showcasing the importance of this introduction.

Theatre

In theatre, a prelude can refer to the opening scenes intended to prepare the audience for the upcoming performance.
These segments can set emotional tones or outline character motivations before the main acts unfold.
The concept is often utilized in both traditional stage plays and contemporary performances to draw the audience in.

Cultural Significance

In various rituals and ceremonies, a prelude may be performed as a sign of respect or preparation for the main event.
Cultural festivals often feature preludes in the form of parades, dances, or songs that celebrate the main theme of the event.
The practice of using a prelude emphasizes anticipation and the transition from one state of being or activity to another.

Translations

Translations of the word "prelude" in other languages:

🇵🇹 prelúdio

introdução
prefácio

🇮🇳 प्रस्तावना

प्रस्ताव
प्रारंभिक

🇩🇪 Vorspiel

Einleitung
Präambel

🇮🇩 pendahuluan

🇺🇦 прелюдія

вступ
передмова

🇵🇱 preludium

wstęp
przedmowa

🇯🇵 前奏曲 (ぜんそうきょく)

序章 (じょしょう)
序文 (じょぶん)

🇫🇷 prélude

introduction
préface

🇪🇸 preludio

introducción
prefacio

🇹🇷 prelüd

giriş
önsöz

🇰🇷 서곡 (序曲)

서문 (序文)
서론 (序論)

🇸🇦 مقدمة

تمهيد
فاتحة

🇨🇿 předehra

úvod
předmluva

🇸🇰 predohra

úvod
predslov

🇨🇳 前奏 (qiánzòu)

引言 (yǐnyán)
序言 (xùyán)

🇸🇮 predigra

uvod
predgovor

🇮🇸 forspil

inngangur
formáli

🇰🇿 прелюдия

кіріспе
алғы сөз

🇬🇪 პრელუდია

შესავალი
წინასიტყვაობა

🇦🇿 prelüd

giriş
ön söz

🇲🇽 preludio

introducción
prefacio

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,613, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

...
14610 unanswered
14611 borderline
14612 replicated
14613 prelude
14614 bracing
14615 shutters
14616 inventive
...