What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
melisma
Example
The singer used a melisma to add emotion to the final note of the song. [melisma: noun]
Example
She melismatically sang the word 'love' with several notes. [melismatically: adverb]
flourish
Example
The calligrapher added a flourish to the end of the letter. [flourish: noun]
Example
The pianist played a beautiful flourish before beginning the main melody. [flourish: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Flourish is more commonly used than melisma in everyday language and can be employed in a wider range of contexts. Melisma is a more specialized term used primarily in academic or musical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between melisma and flourish?
Melisma is more formal and typically used in academic or musical contexts, while flourish is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
