What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lentando
Example
The pianist played the final notes of the piece with a lentando effect. [lentando: adverb]
Example
The orchestra gradually slowed down with a lentando tempo. [lentando: adjective]
ritardando
Example
The conductor signaled the orchestra to ritardando at the end of the movement. [ritardando: verb]
Example
The piece ended with a dramatic ritardando. [ritardando: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ritardando is more commonly used than lentando in music notation. Ritardando is a standard term used in classical music notation, while lentando is less common and may be used more sparingly.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between lentando and ritardando?
Both lentando and ritardando are formal terms used in classical music notation. However, ritardando is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while lentando is less common and may be considered more specialized.
