What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oud
Example
The musician played a beautiful melody on the oud. [oud: noun]
Example
Learning to play the oud requires dedication and practice. [oud: noun]
lute
Example
The lute player performed a beautiful piece of music. [lute: noun]
Example
She strummed the lute strings with precision and skill. [lute: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
The oud is more commonly used in Middle Eastern music, while the lute is more commonly used in Western classical music.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between oud and lute?
Both oud and lute can be used in formal and informal contexts, but the lute may be considered more formal due to its historical association with classical music.