What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
orchestra
Example
The orchestra played a beautiful rendition of Beethoven's Symphony No. 9. [orchestra: noun]
Example
She joined the orchestra as a violinist. [orchestra: noun]
Example
The orchestra rehearsed for hours before the big concert. [orchestra: noun]
symphony
Example
The symphony was composed by Mozart and is considered one of his greatest works. [symphony: noun]
Example
The orchestra performed a symphony by Tchaikovsky. [symphony: noun]
Example
She enjoys listening to symphonies by Beethoven and Brahms. [symphonies: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Orchestra is more commonly used than symphony in everyday language since it can be used in a wider range of contexts. However, symphony is more commonly used in the context of classical music.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between orchestra and symphony?
Symphony is often associated with a more formal and serious tone, while orchestra can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
