What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pesante
Example
The pianist played the pesante section of the piece with great intensity. [pesante: adjective]
Example
The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the next section pesante. [pesante: adverb]
sustained
Example
The violinist played a sustained note that lasted for several measures. [sustained: adjective]
Example
The choir's sustained singing created a hauntingly beautiful effect. [sustained: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sustained is more commonly used than pesante in everyday language, as it has a broader range of applications in music. Pesante is a more specialized term that is primarily used in classical music.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between pesante and sustained?
While pesante is typically associated with a formal and serious tone, sustained can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in a wider range of situations.