tem
po
Plural
tempos
1
the speed that a piece of music is or should be played at
Tempo is the speed at which a piece of music is played. It indicates how fast or slow the beat of the music should be, affecting the overall pace of the performance. Tempo is usually measured in beats per minute (BPM) and can be marked in sheet music with terms like "allegro" for fast or "adagio" for slow. It helps to set the mood and energy of the music, guiding performers on how quickly or slowly to play each section.
- The conductor adjusted the tempo to match the mood of the piece.
- A fast tempo can make a song feel more energetic.
- The tempo of the music gradually slowed down toward the end.
- The song had a steady tempo that made it easy to dance to.
- In classical music, tempo changes are often used to add variety to a performance.
Synonyms:
2
the rate of some repeating event
Synonyms:
3
the advantage gained by making a move that forces the opponent to lose time or by achieving a position with fewer moves
In chess, tempo refers to the number of moves a player makes to achieve a particular position. Gaining a tempo means achieving the same position with fewer moves, while losing a tempo means taking more moves than necessary. This concept is crucial because it allows a player to develop their pieces more efficiently, potentially gaining a strategic advantage. For example, if a player can develop a piece without the opponent being able to respond effectively, they gain a tempo. Conversely, if a player moves a piece that the opponent can easily attack or force to move again, they lose a tempo. Mastering the use of tempo can lead to better piece placement and control over the game.
- The game started with both players focusing on gaining tempo by developing their pieces.
- By moving first, she gained tempo in the game and put her opponent on the defensive.
- The player used clever moves to steal tempo, forcing his opponent to make slower decisions.
- By developing his knight before his opponent, he gained a tempo.
- He lost a tempo by retreating his bishop, allowing his opponent to advance.