What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cadence
Example
The song ended with a beautiful cadence that left the audience captivated. [cadence: noun]
Example
Her voice had a melodic cadence that made her storytelling engaging. [cadence: adjective]
timbre
Example
The timbre of the violin is warm and resonant. [timbre: noun]
Example
His deep timbre added gravitas to his public speaking. [timbre: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cadence is more commonly used than timbre in everyday language. Cadence is frequently used when discussing music, poetry, or public speaking, while timbre is more specialized and often used in discussions about music theory or vocal characteristics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cadence and timbre?
Both cadence and timbre can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, timbre is more technical and may be more commonly used in academic or professional settings, while cadence is versatile and can be used in various formality levels.