Recitation: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the act of saying something aloud from memory, often in a formal setting or classroom. It can also imply a repetitive narration.

• The students gave a recitation of their favorite poems in front of the class.
• She impressed everyone with her flawless recitation of the ancient text.

Refers to the act of presenting an artistic work such as a play, concert, or dance in front of an audience. It focuses on the execution and delivery.

• Her performance in the ballet was breathtaking.
• The band gave an energetic performance at the music festival.

Used to describe a particular version or interpretation of a piece of music or art. It often implies a unique or distinctive take on the original work.

• The singer's rendition of the classic song brought the audience to tears.
• The artist's rendition of the famous painting was quite abstract.

Often refers to the act of reading literature aloud, such as in a book club or at a poetry reading, focusing on the text itself rather than the performer's interpretation.

• The author gave a public reading of her new novel at the bookstore.
• They organized a reading of Shakespearean sonnets in the park.

Used when formally repeating from memory, often in educational or ceremonial settings.

• The student's recitation of the poem impressed the entire class.
• During the ceremony, his recitation of the oath was flawless.

Used when repeating words or sounds rhythmically, often in religious or protest contexts.

• The monks spent hours chanting their prayers.
• The crowd was chanting slogans during the protest.

Used when speaking in a monotone or melody, often in solemn or ritualistic contexts.

• She was intoning the ancient hymn with a steady voice.
• The priest began intoning the sacred verses.

Used when reading text out loud, generally in informal, educational, or performance contexts.

• He spent the evening reading aloud to his children.
• In class, students take turns reading aloud from the book.

Typically used in educational or formal settings where a person speaks aloud from memory, often poetry, literature, or a speech. It can be part of a performance or a classroom exercise.

• The students prepared a recitation of Shakespeare's sonnets.
• Her recitation of the poem was flawless.

Refers to the act of repeating something multiple times. This can be part of learning, practicing skills, or in literary contexts. It doesn't necessarily involve memorization or recitation.

• Musicians practice through repetition to master their instruments.
• In poetry, repetition can create rhythm and emphasis.

Commonly used in educational, business, or professional environments where someone speaks to an audience to share information or present findings, often supported by visual aids.

• She gave an oral presentation on climate change at the conference.
• Their oral presentation impressed the panel of judges.

This refers to the process of committing something to memory. It is often used in the context of studying, learning scripts, or preparing for exams.

• Effective memorization techniques can help you do well in exams.
• Actors spend hours in memorization of their lines.