a piece of music played or to be played slowly and gracefully, a ballet duet in which the ballerina and her partner perform a series of slow, fluid movements

adagio sostenuto, adagio assai, adagio cantabile

Formal and Informal Expressions of adagio

In different contexts, you can replace 'adagio' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'slowly' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'slow' is a commonplace synonym.

adagio: Explore its Definition & Usage

adagio Definition

1a piece of music played or to be played slowly and gracefully
2a ballet duet in which the ballerina and her partner perform a series of slow, fluid movements

Using adagio: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "adagio" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The adagio movement of the symphony was particularly moving.
Example
The dancers performed a beautiful adagio.
Example
The pianist played the adagio with great expression.

adagio Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for adagio

Antonyms for adagio

Phrases with adagio

adagio sostenuto
a slow and sustained tempo
Example
The pianist played the adagio sostenuto with great feeling.
adagio assai
a very slow tempo
Example
The conductor instructed the orchestra to play the adagio assai.
adagio cantabile
a slow tempo that is also singing and melodious
Example
The violinist played the adagio cantabile with great beauty.

Origins of adagio

from Italian 'ad agio', meaning 'at ease'

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Summary: adagio in Brief

An 'adagio' [əˈdɑːdʒiəʊ] is a piece of music played or to be played slowly and gracefully. It can also refer to a ballet duet characterized by slow, fluid movements. Phrases like 'adagio sostenuto' and 'adagio cantabile' denote specific types of slow tempos. 'Adagio' is often used in formal contexts to describe a slow pace.