What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
glissandi
Example
The violinist performed a beautiful glissando up the scale. [glissando: noun]
Example
The cellist used a glissando to transition between two notes. [glissando: verb]
slide
Example
The guitarist used a slide to create a unique sound. [slide: noun]
Example
The trombonist slid from one note to the next. [slid: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Slide is more commonly used than glissandi in everyday language. Slide is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while glissandi is less common and mainly used in the context of classical music.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between glissandi and slide?
Both glissandi and slide are associated with a formal tone due to their use in classical music. However, slide is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, such as in popular music genres like blues and rock.