What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
adagio
Example
The pianist played the adagio with great emotion. [adagio: noun]
Example
The dancers moved in perfect synchronization during the adagio portion of the performance. [adagio: adjective]
lento
Example
The orchestra played the lento section with a somber tone. [lento: adjective]
Example
The dancers performed a beautiful lento that conveyed a sense of sorrow. [lento: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Adagio is more commonly used than lento in everyday language, especially in music and dance contexts. Lento is less common and may be unfamiliar to many people outside of those fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between adagio and lento?
Both adagio and lento are formal words that are typically used in professional or artistic contexts. However, adagio may be slightly more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
