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Prelude - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

A prelude is an introductory piece of music, event, or action that precedes something more significant. It sets the stage or prepares for what follows.

prelude

/ˈprɛlˌjud/ /ˈprɛljuːd/

Definition:

An introductory piece of music, event, or action preceding something more important.

Synonyms:

introduction, overture, prologue, preamble

Part of Speech:

noun, verb

Antonyms:

conclusion, epilogue

Common Collocations:

musical prelude, prelude to war, prelude concert

Derivatives:

preludial, preluding, preluder

Usage Tips:

Use "prelude" to describe an introductory event or piece of music before the main action or performance.

Common Phrases:

prelude to disaster, prelude to success, in the prelude

Etymology:

From Latin "praeludium," meaning "to play beforehand," via Old French "prelude."

Examples:

  • 1. The orchestra played a beautiful prelude before the opera began.
  • 2. Her speech served as a prelude to the main conference session.
  • 3. The dark clouds were a prelude to the coming storm.
  • 4. He practiced the piano prelude for hours before the recital.

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