Choral: Meaning, Synonyms, & Examples

The term “choral” refers to anything related to a choir or group of singers who perform together. It is often used to describe music or singing that involves a chorus or ensemble of voices rather than a solo performer. Choral music can be harmonious and is typically performed in a group setting, such as a choir or a vocal ensemble.

Meaning and definition of ‘choral’

The term “choral” can have a few related meanings:

1. Adjective for Choir or Chorus:

  • Definition: Relating to a choir or chorus, typically referring to music that is sung by a group of voices.
  • Example: The choral performance at the concert was breathtaking.

2. Noun:

  • Definition: A piece of music written for or sung by a choir or chorus.
  • Example: The choir rehearsed a beautiful choral composition for the upcoming event.

3. Adjective for Anything Related to a Choir:

  • Definition: Pertaining to anything associated with a choir or chorus, such as choral director or choral practice.
  • Example: The choral director was impressed with the singers’ dedication.

In general, “choral” is commonly used in the context of group singing or music involving a choir, and it encompasses both the adjective form describing characteristics of the music or singing style and the noun form referring to the music itself.

Choral in different contexts

The term “choral” can be used in various contexts beyond music. Here are a few examples:

1. Choral Speaking:

  • Context: This refers to a group of people speaking in unison or in a coordinated manner, often with rhythmic patterns.
  • Example: The students showcased their talent in choral speaking during the school assembly.

2. Choral Reading:

  • Context: Similar to choral speaking, this involves a group of people reading aloud together, often used as an educational or expressive technique.
  • Example: The literature class engaged in choral reading to enhance comprehension and fluency.

3. Choral Society:

  • Context: An organization or group of individuals who come together to sing in a choir or perform choral music.
  • Example: The choral society rehearsed diligently for their upcoming performance.

4. Choral Architecture:

  • Context: In architecture, the term might be used to describe features or elements designed to enhance the acoustics of a space for choral performances.
  • Example: The church was known for its choral architecture, providing a superb environment for musical performances.

5. Choral Conducting:

  • Context: Refers to the art and technique of leading a choir or ensemble during a musical performance.
  • Example: She studied choral conducting to develop her skills in leading vocal groups.

6. Choral Response:

  • Context: In communication or discourse, it can refer to a group’s collective response or participation.
  • Example: The audience’s choral response to the speaker’s words indicated a shared sentiment.

Other forms of ‘choral’

While “choral” is commonly used as an adjective to describe things related to choirs or group singing, it doesn’t have many alternative forms. However, here are a few related terms:

1. Chorale:

  • Definition: A hymn or a simple, often harmonized, melody used in a worship service or as part of a larger musical work.
  • Example: The church choir sang a beautiful chorale during the Sunday service.

2. Choralize:

  • Definition: To arrange or adapt a piece of music for choral performance.
  • Example: The composer decided to choralize the piece originally written for a soloist, allowing it to be performed by a choir.

3. Choralist:

  • Definition: A person who sings in or conducts a choir; a choir member.
  • Example: As a dedicated choralist, she participated in various choir performances throughout the year.

4. Choralization:

  • Definition: The process of adapting or arranging music for choral performance.
  • Example: The choralization of the classical piece added depth and richness to the overall sound.

How to pronounce choral?

The word “choral” is pronounced as /ˈkɔːrəl/. Here’s a breakdown of the pronunciation:

  • “Chor”: rhymes with “more”
  • “al”: pronounced like the letter “L”

When said together, it is pronounced as “kawr-uhl,” with the stress on the first syllable.

Synonyms and antonyms of choral

Synonyms of choral: chorale, choir, ensemble, vocal, harmonic, polyphonic, group singing, chorus, singing together, melody, music, theme, tune, bob, burden, motif, response, song, strain, chant, ditty, oratorio, paean, psalm, aria, canticle, carol, choral, descant, evensong, hallelujah, hosanna, laud, lay, lied, ode, shout, hymn, verse, air, anthem, ballad, lullaby, lyrics, number, oldie, opera, piece, poem, refrain, round

Antonyms of choral: solo, unaccompanied, individual, monophonic, unison, soloist, non-choral, instrumental, silence

Examples of the word ‘choral’ in sentences

1. The choral performance at the concert was so captivating that it left the audience in awe.

  • Usage: Describes a musical performance involving a choir or group of singers.

2. Every Sunday, the church reverberates with the sounds of choral singing during the worship service.

  • Usage: Refers to singing by a choir within the church setting.

3. The school’s choral group, comprised of talented students, won first place in the regional singing competition.

  • Usage: Highlights a group of singers in a school context.

4. The composer decided to choralize the composition originally written for a single voice, transforming it into a beautiful piece for a choir.

  • Usage: Refers to the adaptation of a musical piece for choral performance.

5. The choral director carefully conducted the singers, ensuring that each voice blended harmoniously with the others.

  • Usage: Describes the director of a choir or vocal ensemble.

6. At the community center, a choral society gathers regularly to rehearse and bring joy to the local residents through their music.

  • Usage: Describes a society or group dedicated to choral singing.

7. The grand cathedral, known for its remarkable choral architecture, hosted a special concert featuring renowned choirs from around the world.

  • Usage: Refers to the architectural features designed for optimal choral performances.

8. The choralist enchanted the audience with a powerful rendition of the hymn, accompanied by the resonant voices of the choir.

  • Usage: Describes an individual singer within a choir.

9. As part of the festive celebrations, the town organized a choral parade, with different groups singing cheerful tunes throughout the streets.

  • Usage: Describes a parade where singing groups or choirs participate.

10. The students practiced choral reading to improve their oral communication skills and foster a sense of unity in the classroom.

  • Usage: Refers to a collective reading exercise involving a group of students.

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