Learn how to use the comparative “ritardando” and superlative “ritenutissimo” with example sentences and differences.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

Comparative adjectives help us to describe how good or bad something is when compared to something else. For example, something is taller than something else. Superlative adjectives help us to describe something as having the most or least of a particular characteristic within a group. This makes it easier and more accurate to talk about and compare things.

What is the comparative form of “ritenuto”?

The comparative form of “ritenuto” is “ritardando”.

Example

The music gradually slows down, ritardando from the previous tempo.

Example

In the second movement, the tempo is ritardando compared to the first movement.

What is the superlative form of “ritenuto”?

The superlative form of “ritenuto” is “ritenutissimo”.

Example

The final section of the composition is played ritenutissimo, with the utmost slowing down.

Example

The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the last note ritenutissimo.

Why is this expression not used with most, more?

"Most" and "more" are not used with "ritenuto," "ritardando," and "ritenutissimo." Instead, "ritardando" and "ritenutissimo" are the appropriate comparatives and superlatives for "ritenuto." Using "most ritenuto" or "more ritenuto" would be grammatically incorrect.

Does this expression have an irregular comparative/superlative form?

"Ritenuto" does not have a regular comparative and superlative form. Instead, "ritardando" and "ritenutissimo" are used to indicate a slower tempo or speed.

Expressions with similar meanings to “ritardando”

Used to describe a decrease in tempo or speed.

Example

The conductor signaled for a slowing down of the music.

Used to indicate a gradual decrease in speed or tempo.

Example

The pianist started decelerating towards the end of the piece.

Expressions with similar meanings to “ritenutissimo”

Used to emphasize an extreme slowing down of tempo or speed.

Example

The pianist played the passage extremely ritardando, creating a dramatic effect.

Used to describe a highly decreased speed or tempo.

Example

The final movement is performed very decelerated, highlighting the emotional intensity.

Using than with comparative “ritardando”

When using the comparative form "ritardando" to compare two tempos or speeds, you would use "than" to connect the two parts of the comparison: Example: "The second movement is ritardando compared to the first movement." Here, "than" is used to show that the tempo of the second movement is slower than the tempo of the first movement.

How can I use this expression in context?

“ritardando” and “ritenutissimo” can be used in a variety of situations to compare speed.
  • 1Classical Music

    The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the passage ritardando.

    The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the passage ritardando.

  • 2Sheet Music

    The score indicates a ritenutissimo tempo for the final section.

    The score indicates a ritenutissimo tempo for the final section.

  • 3Musical Performance

    The pianist executed a beautiful ritardando at the end of the piece.

    The pianist executed a beautiful ritardando at the end of the piece.

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