chorus
chorus 30秒了解
- A chorus is the catchy, repeated part of a song that usually contains the main message and is easy for listeners to remember and sing.
- It also refers to a group of singers who perform together as a team, often seen in schools, churches, or professional theater productions.
- In ancient history, a chorus was a group of actors who explained the story to the audience in Greek plays through song and dance.
- Metaphorically, it describes a situation where many people express the same opinion at once, like a 'chorus of cheers' or a 'chorus of complaints'.
The word chorus is a versatile noun that primarily exists within the realms of music, theater, and collective human expression. At its most fundamental level, a chorus refers to a group of individuals who perform vocal music together. This is not merely a collection of soloists but a unified body where individual voices blend to create a singular, powerful harmonic texture. In a modern musical context, particularly in pop, rock, and country genres, the chorus represents the focal point of a song. It is the section that contains the main theme, the most memorable melody, and the core lyrical message. Unlike the verses, which provide narrative detail and progression, the chorus is designed to be repetitive and infectious, serving as the 'hook' that listeners often hum or sing along to. Historically, the concept of the chorus dates back to Ancient Greece, where the 'khoros' was a group of performers who commented on the main action of a play through song, dance, and recitation. This group acted as a bridge between the audience and the characters, offering moral perspective and emotional resonance. In contemporary usage, we also see the word applied metaphorically. When a large group of people expresses the same opinion or emotion simultaneously, we describe it as a 'chorus of voices.' For instance, if a new policy is met with widespread disagreement, journalists might report a 'chorus of disapproval' from the public. This highlights the word's association with unity and collective action.
- Musical Structure
- In songwriting, the chorus is the recurring part of a piece of music that follows each verse. It usually remains constant in terms of lyrics and melody, providing a sense of familiarity and resolution for the listener.
After the first verse finished, the entire audience joined in for the catchy chorus.
- Vocal Ensemble
- A chorus can also refer to the group of singers themselves, often found in operas, musicals, or large-scale choral works like oratorios. They provide the background atmosphere or the grand climaxes of the performance.
The local community chorus is looking for new tenors and basses for their winter concert.
Furthermore, the term extends into the world of electronic music and audio engineering. A 'chorus effect' is a type of signal processing that makes a single instrument or voice sound like multiple sources playing in unison. This is achieved by slightly delaying the signal and varying its pitch, creating a lush, shimmering sound that mimics the natural variations found in a real human chorus. Whether you are discussing the structure of a Taylor Swift song, the history of Sophocles' plays, or the settings on a guitar pedal, the word chorus remains central to the idea of multiplicity merging into unity. It is a word that celebrates the power of the collective over the individual, emphasizing the beauty that arises when many parts work together to create a whole. In everyday conversation, you might use it to describe a group of birds singing at dawn—the 'dawn chorus'—which beautifully illustrates how the term captures the essence of natural, spontaneous harmony.
- Figurative Unity
- When many people say the same thing at once, they are speaking in a chorus. This usage emphasizes agreement or a shared emotional response among a large crowd.
A chorus of cheers erupted from the stadium as the home team scored the winning goal.
The children answered in a chorus of 'Yes!' when asked if they wanted ice cream.
The opera singer was supported by a magnificent chorus of fifty performers.
Using the word chorus correctly requires an understanding of whether you are referring to a group of people or a section of a song. As a countable noun, you can have one chorus or many choruses. When referring to the group of singers, it often functions as a collective noun. In British English, you might hear 'the chorus are performing,' while in American English, it is more common to say 'the chorus is performing.' Both are grammatically acceptable depending on your regional dialect. When discussing song structure, 'chorus' is almost always preceded by the definite article 'the' because it refers to a specific, identifiable part of the composition. For example, 'I love the chorus of that new single.' You can also use it as a verb, though this is less common; to 'chorus' something means to say it all together at the same time. Understanding the prepositional patterns is also key. We sing *in* a chorus, we join *the* chorus, and we listen *to* the chorus. If you are describing a reaction, the phrase 'in chorus' is a fixed idiomatic expression meaning 'all together.' For example, 'The students stood up in chorus.' This adds a layer of formal or literary flair to your writing.
- Describing Song Parts
- Use 'chorus' when you want to highlight the most repeated and melodic part of a track. It is the part people remember most easily.
The songwriter decided to shorten the chorus to make the song more radio-friendly.
- Describing Groups
- When referring to a musical ensemble, 'chorus' often implies a larger group than a 'quartet' or 'ensemble' but can be smaller than a full 'choir'.
The Broadway chorus practiced their dance routine for six hours every day.
In academic or critical writing, 'chorus' is used to analyze the structure of drama. You might write about the 'function of the chorus' in a play by Euripides. In this context, the word is almost always singular, representing the collective voice of the community within the play. In more casual settings, you might use 'chorus' to describe repetitive sounds in nature. The 'dawn chorus' is a very common phrase used to describe the collective singing of birds early in the morning. When using the word in this way, it evokes a sense of natural harmony and the start of a new day. Additionally, in the context of musical theater, 'chorus girl' or 'chorus boy' refers to the performers who sing and dance in the background, supporting the lead actors. While these terms are somewhat dated, they are still found in historical discussions of the stage. Overall, the word is highly adaptable, fitting into formal analysis, technical musical discussion, and everyday observations of sound and group behavior.
- Collective Reactions
- Use 'chorus' to describe a situation where many people are saying the same thing, emphasizing the volume and unity of the statement.
There was a chorus of complaints when the train was delayed for the third time this week.
The birds began their dawn chorus just as the sun started to peek over the horizon.
The finale featured the entire cast and the chorus in a spectacular dance number.
The word chorus is ubiquitous in the music industry. If you watch a documentary about the making of an album, you will frequently hear producers and artists discussing 'the chorus.' They might say, 'The chorus needs to be bigger,' or 'We should move the chorus earlier in the track.' In this environment, the chorus is the 'money maker'—the part of the song that makes it a hit. You will also hear it in the context of live performances. At a concert, the lead singer might point the microphone at the crowd and shout, 'Everyone, sing the chorus!' This creates a shared moment of connection between the performer and thousands of fans. In the world of theater, specifically musical theater and opera, the chorus is a fundamental element. Stage managers and directors will refer to 'the chorus' as a specific department or group of performers. You might hear, 'Chorus, please take your positions for Act Two.' This usage is very common in backstage environments and theater schools.
- Music Production
- In recording studios, 'chorus' is a technical term for the main repetitive section of a song and also a specific audio effect used to thicken sounds.
The producer suggested adding a layer of synthesizers to the chorus to give it more energy.
- Theater & Opera
- In the performing arts, the chorus refers to the ensemble of singers and dancers who support the lead performers and provide the background for the story.
She started her career in the chorus of a traveling production of 'Les Misérables'.
Beyond the arts, you will hear 'chorus' in news reporting and political analysis. Journalists often use the phrase 'a chorus of voices' to describe a widespread reaction to an event. For example, 'A chorus of world leaders condemned the recent violence.' This usage implies that the condemnation was not just from one person, but was a collective, unified response. In a more literal sense, if you live near a park or a forest, you might hear people talk about the 'dawn chorus' in the springtime. This is a common topic of conversation for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. In educational settings, teachers might ask students to 'respond in chorus,' meaning everyone should answer the question at the same time. This is a common technique used in language learning or primary school classrooms to build confidence and ensure everyone is participating. Finally, in literature and history classes, the 'Greek chorus' is a standard topic when discussing the origins of drama. Students learn how the chorus functioned as a narrator and a moral guide in ancient plays.
- News & Media
- Media outlets use 'chorus' to describe a collective outcry or a unified public opinion on a significant issue.
The senator's controversial remarks were met with a chorus of criticism from both sides of the aisle.
Every morning at 5 AM, the chorus of birds outside my window wakes me up.
The teacher led the class in a chorus of the alphabet song.
One of the most frequent mistakes learners make is confusing chorus with choir. While they are very similar, 'choir' is almost exclusively used for a group of singers, especially in a religious or classical music context. You would say 'the church choir,' but you would rarely say 'the church chorus.' Conversely, 'chorus' is the standard term for the repeated part of a pop song; you would never say 'the choir of the song.' Another common error involves spelling. Because of the 'ch' sound (which is pronounced like a 'k'), some people are tempted to spell it 'korus' or 'corus.' It is important to remember the Greek-derived 'ch' spelling, similar to words like 'character' or 'chemistry.' Pluralization is another area where mistakes occur. The plural is 'choruses,' not 'chori' or 'chorusses.' Adding the '-es' is the standard rule for nouns ending in 's'.
- Chorus vs. Choir
- Use 'choir' for formal vocal groups and 'chorus' for song parts or theatrical ensembles. Don't mix them up when talking about a song's structure.
Incorrect: I love the choir of this song. Correct: I love the chorus of this song.
- Spelling and Pronunciation
- The 'ch' is pronounced /k/. Do not pronounce it like the 'ch' in 'church'. Spelling it with a 'k' is a common mistake for beginners.
Incorrect: The korus was very loud. Correct: The chorus was very loud.
Additionally, some learners struggle with the distinction between a 'chorus' and a 'refrain.' While they are often used as synonyms, a 'refrain' technically refers only to the repeated lyrics, whereas a 'chorus' refers to the entire musical section, including the melody and instrumentation. In most casual conversations, this distinction doesn't matter, but in a music theory class, it is important. Another mistake is using 'chorus' when you mean 'verse.' The verse is the part of the song where the story develops and the lyrics change, while the chorus is the part that stays the same. Confusing these two can lead to misunderstandings when discussing music. Finally, be careful with the phrase 'in chorus.' It should not be 'in a chorus' when you mean everyone spoke at once. 'They answered in chorus' is the correct idiomatic form. Adding the 'a' changes the meaning to being physically inside a group of singers.
- Chorus vs. Verse
- The verse tells the story; the chorus gives the message. Don't use 'chorus' to describe the narrative parts of a song.
Incorrect: The first chorus tells us about his childhood. Correct: The first verse tells us about his childhood.
Correct Idiom: 'Yes, sir!' the soldiers replied in chorus.
The choruses of the different songs all sounded very similar to each other.
When you want to avoid repeating the word chorus, or when you need a more specific term, there are several alternatives depending on the context. In the world of songwriting, the most common synonym is refrain. As mentioned earlier, a refrain is the line or set of lines that repeat at the end of a stanza. In many songs, the refrain and the chorus are the same thing, but 'refrain' sounds slightly more poetic or formal. Another popular term in modern music is the hook. A hook is a musical or lyrical phrase that is designed to be 'catchy' and stay in the listener's mind. While the chorus usually contains the hook, the hook can sometimes be a shorter snippet within the chorus or even an instrumental riff. If you are referring to a group of singers, choir is the most direct alternative, but you could also use ensemble or vocal group. 'Ensemble' is a great word for theater because it includes both singers and dancers.
- Chorus vs. Refrain
- A chorus is a full musical section; a refrain is the repeated text. Use 'refrain' for poetry and 'chorus' for music.
The poem's haunting refrain was repeated at the end of every stanza.
- Chorus vs. Hook
- The hook is the part that gets stuck in your head. It is often the most important part of the chorus.
The song's hook is so simple yet so effective that I can't stop singing it.
In a metaphorical sense, if you are talking about a 'chorus of voices,' you might use words like unison, concord, or consensus. 'Unison' specifically refers to everyone saying or doing the exact same thing at the same time. 'Consensus' refers to a general agreement among a group. For example, 'There was a consensus of opinion' is similar to 'There was a chorus of approval,' but 'consensus' is more formal and less descriptive of the actual sound. If the 'chorus' is loud and perhaps a bit messy, you might use clamor or cacophony. A 'cacophony of voices' is the opposite of a 'chorus of voices' because it implies discord and noise rather than harmony. Understanding these nuances allows you to choose the word that perfectly fits the mood and tone of your writing. Whether you want to describe the beautiful harmony of a church choir or the angry shouting of a crowd, having these alternatives at your disposal is invaluable.
- Chorus vs. Unison
- Singing in a chorus involves different harmonies; singing in unison means everyone sings the exact same notes.
The crowd shouted 'No!' in unison when the referee made the call.
The vocal group performed an a cappella version of the national anthem.
The ensemble provided a rich background for the lead actor's solo performance.
How Formal Is It?
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趣味小知识
In Ancient Greece, the 'choregos' was a wealthy citizen who paid for the training and costumes of the chorus. It was considered a great civic honor and a way to give back to the city-state.
发音指南
- Pronouncing the 'ch' like 'church' instead of 'k'.
- Adding an extra 'o' sound in the second syllable.
- Stressing the second syllable instead of the first.
- Confusing the spelling with 'corus'.
- Trying to pronounce it like 'choir'.
难度评级
The word is short and appears frequently in basic texts about music.
The 'ch' spelling can be tricky for beginners who might want to use 'k'.
The 'k' sound for 'ch' needs to be learned, but the word is easy to say.
It is a distinct-sounding word that is usually clear in speech.
接下来学什么
前置知识
接下来学习
高级
需要掌握的语法
Collective Nouns
The chorus (is/are) singing. Use singular in US English, plural or singular in UK English.
Pluralization of '-s' nouns
Chorus becomes choruses. Add '-es' to words ending in 's', 'x', 'z', 'ch', or 'sh'.
Definite Article with Song Parts
I like *the* chorus. We usually use 'the' because a song has one specific chorus.
Prepositions of Place/Activity
She is *in* the chorus. Use 'in' to describe membership in a group.
Adjective Placement
A *catchy* chorus. Adjectives come before the noun they describe.
按水平分级的例句
I like the chorus of this song.
Me gusta el estribillo de esta canción.
Simple subject-verb-object structure.
The chorus is very easy to sing.
El coro es muy fácil de cantar.
Using 'is' to describe a property of the noun.
We sing the chorus three times.
Cantamos el estribillo tres veces.
Present simple for a repeated action.
Is there a chorus in this music?
¿Hay un estribillo en esta música?
Question form using 'is there'.
The school chorus is very big.
El coro de la escuela es muy grande.
Chorus as a collective noun.
Listen to the chorus now.
Escucha el estribillo ahora.
Imperative sentence.
He sings in the church chorus.
Él canta en el coro de la iglesia.
Preposition 'in' used with the group.
The chorus has a nice melody.
El estribillo tiene una melodía agradable.
Using 'has' to describe a feature.
The children shouted 'Hello!' in chorus.
Los niños gritaron '¡Hola!' a coro.
Idiomatic phrase 'in chorus'.
She is a member of the local chorus.
Ella es miembro del coro local.
Noun phrase 'member of the...'.
The song has two verses and one chorus.
La canción tiene dos estrofas y un estribillo.
Contrast between verse and chorus.
The chorus was much louder than the verse.
El estribillo fue mucho más fuerte que la estrofa.
Comparative adjective 'louder than'.
Do you know the words to the chorus?
¿Te sabes la letra del estribillo?
Common question about song lyrics.
The birds started their dawn chorus early.
Los pájaros comenzaron su coro del amanecer temprano.
Compound noun 'dawn chorus'.
The chorus of the play was very interesting.
El coro de la obra fue muy interesante.
Referring to theatrical ensemble.
Everyone joined in for the final chorus.
Todos se unieron para el estribillo final.
Phrasal verb 'join in'.
There was a chorus of disapproval from the audience.
Hubo un coro de desaprobación por parte del público.
Metaphorical use for collective reaction.
The songwriter struggled to write a catchy chorus.
Al compositor le costó escribir un estribillo pegadizo.
Infinitive phrase 'to write a...'.
The chorus provides a strong emotional climax to the song.
El estribillo proporciona un fuerte clímax emocional a la canción.
Describing the function of the chorus.
In the musical, the chorus represents the townspeople.
En el musical, el coro representa a los habitantes del pueblo.
Chorus as a symbolic representation.
The voices rose in a harmonious chorus.
Las voces se alzaron en un coro armonioso.
Using adjectives to describe the sound.
A chorus of frogs could be heard from the pond.
Se podía oír un coro de ranas desde el estanque.
Applying the term to animal sounds.
The chorus is repeated after every second verse.
El estribillo se repite después de cada segunda estrofa.
Passive voice 'is repeated'.
She felt nervous about her solo in the chorus.
Se sentía nerviosa por su solo en el coro.
Prepositional phrase 'about her solo'.
A chorus of voices called for the minister's resignation.
Un coro de voces pidió la dimisión del ministro.
Using 'chorus' to imply political pressure.
The Greek chorus acted as a bridge between the actors and the audience.
El coro griego actuó como un puente entre los actores y el público.
Historical and literary context.
The producer used a chorus effect to thicken the vocal track.
El productor utilizó un efecto de coro para espesar la pista vocal.
Technical musical terminology.
The critics joined in a chorus of praise for the new film.
Los críticos se unieron en un coro de elogios para la nueva película.
Idiomatic expression 'chorus of praise'.
The complexity of the chorus's harmonies was impressive.
La complejidad de las armonías del coro era impresionante.
Possessive form 'chorus's'.
The chorus of the song is actually a sample from an older track.
El estribillo de la canción es en realidad una muestra de una pista más antigua.
Discussing modern music production.
He was relegated to the chorus after failing the lead audition.
Fue relegado al coro tras no superar la audición para el papel principal.
Passive voice 'was relegated'.
The dawn chorus is particularly vibrant in the spring months.
El coro del amanecer es particularmente vibrante en los meses de primavera.
Using 'particularly' to add detail.
The decision was met with a chorus of condemnation from international human rights groups.
La decisión fue recibida con un coro de condena por parte de grupos internacionales de derechos humanos.
High-level formal register.
The playwright used the chorus to provide a moral commentary on the protagonist's hubris.
El dramaturgo utilizó el coro para ofrecer un comentario moral sobre la hibris del protagonista.
Academic literary analysis.
The intricate polyphony of the chorus created a sense of celestial grandeur.
La intrincada polifonía del coro creó una sensación de grandeza celestial.
Advanced descriptive vocabulary.
Despite the chorus of skepticism, the inventor remained confident in his design.
A pesar del coro de escepticismo, el inventor mantuvo la confianza en su diseño.
Concessive clause starting with 'Despite'.
The song's structure is unusual, featuring a bridge that leads directly into a double chorus.
La estructura de la canción es inusual, con un puente que conduce directamente a un doble estribillo.
Technical analysis of song structure.
The sheer volume of the chorus of cicadas was almost deafening in the heat of the afternoon.
El puro volumen del coro de cigarras era casi ensordecedor en el calor de la tarde.
Using 'sheer' for emphasis.
She found solace in the anonymity of the chorus, away from the pressure of solo performance.
Encontró consuelo en el anonimato del coro, lejos de la presión de la actuación en solitario.
Abstract psychological description.
The political landscape was dominated by a chorus of populist rhetoric.
El panorama político estaba dominado por un coro de retórica populista.
Metaphorical use in political science.
The author masterfully orchestrates a chorus of narrative voices to explore the multifaceted nature of truth.
El autor orquesta magistralmente un coro de voces narrativas para explorar la naturaleza multifacética de la verdad.
Sophisticated literary metaphor.
The symphony culminates in a magnificent choral finale, where the chorus and orchestra merge in sublime unity.
La sinfonía culmina en un magnífico final coral, donde el coro y la orquesta se funden en una unidad sublime.
Expert musical description.
The prevailing chorus of neoliberal economic thought has faced increasing scrutiny in recent years.
El coro predominante del pensamiento económico neoliberal se ha enfrentado a un escrutinio cada vez mayor en los últimos años.
Abstract academic discourse.
In the silence of the desert, the wind created a ghostly chorus among the rock formations.
En el silencio del desierto, el viento creaba un coro fantasmal entre las formaciones rocosas.
Evocative poetic language.
The play’s subtext is reinforced by the chorus, which serves as the collective conscience of the community.
El subtexto de la obra se ve reforzado por el coro, que sirve como conciencia colectiva de la comunidad.
Deep structural analysis of drama.
A chorus of whistles and catcalls greeted the controversial decision by the board of directors.
Un coro de silbidos y abucheos recibió la polémica decisión del consejo de administración.
Describing specific auditory reactions.
The digital chorus effect can introduce phase issues if not managed carefully during the mixing process.
El efecto de coro digital puede introducir problemas de fase si no se gestiona cuidadosamente durante el proceso de mezcla.
Highly technical engineering context.
The dawn chorus serves as a biological clock, signaling the commencement of the day's foraging activities.
El coro del amanecer sirve como un reloj biológico, señalando el comienzo de las actividades de búsqueda de alimento del día.
Scientific/Biological register.
反义词
常见搭配
常用短语
Sing in chorus
A chorus of voices
The final chorus
Join in the chorus
Chorus of praise
Backing chorus
Chorus line
In a chorus
Chorus of protest
Double chorus
容易混淆的词
A choir is a group of singers, usually in a church. A chorus is a part of a song or a theatrical group.
A refrain is the repeated text; a chorus is the entire musical section.
A verse tells the story and changes; a chorus repeats and gives the main message.
习语与表达
"In chorus"
Simultaneously; all at once. Used when a group says or does something together.
The children answered 'Present!' in chorus.
neutral"Join the chorus"
To add one's voice to a widespread opinion or movement.
Many experts have joined the chorus of concern about climate change.
neutral"A chorus of disapproval"
A large and unified expression of being unhappy with something.
The referee's decision was met with a chorus of disapproval from the fans.
neutral"Dawn chorus"
The collective singing of birds at the beginning of the day.
The dawn chorus is one of the most beautiful sounds in nature.
neutral"Greek chorus"
A group that comments on events rather than participating in them directly.
The pundits on the news acted like a Greek chorus to the political drama.
literary"Chorus girl/boy"
A performer in the ensemble of a musical show.
He spent years as a chorus boy before getting a lead role.
neutral"Chorus of boos"
A unified sound of people expressing their dislike by shouting 'boo'.
The villain walked onto the stage to a chorus of boos.
neutral"Sing from the same chorus sheet"
To express the same opinions or goals as others (similar to 'sing from the same hymn sheet').
The management team needs to start singing from the same chorus sheet.
informal"A chorus of 'aww'"
A collective sound made by people when they see something cute or sad.
When the puppy appeared on screen, there was a chorus of 'aww' from the audience.
informal"Swell the chorus"
To make a collective opinion or sound even louder or more powerful.
The latest report will only serve to swell the chorus of criticism.
literary容易混淆
Both refer to groups of singers.
Choir is more formal/religious; Chorus is more theatrical/pop-oriented. Chorus also refers to song parts.
The church choir sang a hymn, but the pop song had a catchy chorus.
Both refer to repeated parts of a song.
Refrain is often just a line or two; Chorus is a full musical section. Refrain is more common in poetry.
The poem has a one-line refrain, while the song has a long chorus.
Similar spelling and both related to music.
A chord is several notes played at once on an instrument; a chorus is a section of a song or a group of singers.
He played a C major chord before starting the chorus.
Similar sound (homophone-ish in some accents).
Coarse means rough or rude; Chorus is a musical term.
The fabric was coarse, but the chorus was smooth.
Vaguely similar spelling for very new learners.
A corpse is a dead body; a chorus is a group of singers.
The horror movie featured a corpse, but the musical featured a chorus.
句型
I like the [adjective] chorus.
I like the happy chorus.
The chorus is [adjective] than the verse.
The chorus is louder than the verse.
There was a chorus of [noun] from the [group].
There was a chorus of cheers from the fans.
The [noun] joined the chorus of [noun].
The experts joined the chorus of concern.
Met with a chorus of [abstract noun], the [subject]...
Met with a chorus of skepticism, the plan was revised.
The [subject] functions as a [adjective] chorus, [verb-ing]...
The minor characters function as a choric ensemble, reflecting the community's fears.
We sing the chorus.
We sing the chorus together.
They said it in chorus.
They said 'Goodbye' in chorus.
词族
名词
动词
形容词
相关
如何使用
Very high in music and arts; medium in general news and literature.
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Using 'choir' to describe the repeated part of a song.
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Using 'chorus'.
'Choir' only refers to the group of people, never the section of music. You should say 'the song's chorus'.
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Spelling it 'korus' or 'corus'.
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Spelling it 'chorus'.
The word follows the Greek 'ch' spelling pattern. It is a very common spelling error for new learners.
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Saying 'the chorus are' in American English.
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Saying 'the chorus is'.
In American English, collective nouns like 'chorus' almost always take a singular verb.
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Confusing 'chorus' with 'verse' when analyzing a song.
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Identifying the chorus as the repeated section.
The verse provides the narrative, while the chorus provides the repetitive theme. Mixing them up confuses the listener.
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Using 'chori' as the plural form.
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Using 'choruses'.
While some Latin-derived words use '-i', 'chorus' uses the standard English '-es' pluralization.
小贴士
The 'CH' Rule
Always remember that 'chorus' starts with 'CH' but sounds like 'K'. This is common in words of Greek origin like 'Chemistry' and 'Character'.
Verse vs. Chorus
If you are describing a song, remember: the verse tells the story (changes), and the chorus gives the message (repeats).
Metaphorical Use
Use 'a chorus of...' to describe any group reaction. It sounds much more professional than just saying 'many people said...'.
Stress the Start
Put the emphasis on the first part: CHO-rus. Don't let the 'us' sound too long or strong.
Spot the Hook
When listening to a new song, try to identify the chorus. It's usually the part that you want to sing along to the most.
Collective Noun Tip
In American English, treat 'chorus' as a single unit: 'The chorus is ready.' This keeps your grammar simple and consistent.
In Chorus
Use 'in chorus' without the word 'a' when you mean 'all at once'. Example: 'They shouted in chorus.'
Theater Context
In a play, the chorus isn't just singers; they are often the narrators who help the audience understand the deeper meaning.
Descriptive Adjectives
Pair 'chorus' with adjectives like 'catchy', 'haunting', 'powerful', or 'discordant' to make your writing more vivid.
The 'Core' Connection
Think of the chorus as the 'core' of the song. This helps you remember both the meaning and the first few letters.
记住它
记忆技巧
Think of a **CH**urch **OR**chestra **US**ing their voices together. CH-OR-US.
视觉联想
Imagine a large group of people standing in a circle, all wearing bright robes and singing the exact same word at the top of their lungs.
Word Web
挑战
Try to identify the chorus in the next five songs you hear on the radio. Write down the first line of each chorus.
词源
The word 'chorus' originates from the Latin 'chorus', which was borrowed from the Ancient Greek 'khoros'. In Greek, it referred to a group of dancers and singers who performed at religious festivals and in theatrical plays. This group was a central part of Greek culture, representing the voice of the community.
原始含义: A dance in a circle, or the group of people performing such a dance and singing.
Indo-European (Hellenic branch to Latin to English).文化背景
None. The word is neutral and widely used in all social contexts.
In the UK and US, community choruses are very popular, allowing amateur singers to perform large-scale works together.
在生活中练习
真实语境
Music Education
- Identify the chorus.
- Sing the chorus louder.
- The chorus repeats three times.
- Who wrote the chorus?
Theater/Drama
- The chorus enters from the left.
- The chorus comments on the action.
- Auditions for the chorus.
- The chorus leader speaks.
Casual Conversation
- I love the chorus.
- The chorus is stuck in my head.
- Let's sing the chorus.
- What's the chorus about?
News/Media
- A chorus of complaints.
- A chorus of approval.
- Voices joined in a chorus.
- The growing chorus of voices.
Nature/Environment
- The dawn chorus.
- A chorus of insects.
- The birds' chorus.
- Listen to the natural chorus.
对话开场白
"What is your favorite song chorus of all time and why do you like it?"
"Have you ever sang in a school or church chorus when you were younger?"
"Do you think the chorus is the most important part of a modern pop song?"
"How do you feel when you hear a large group of people singing in chorus?"
"If you were in a musical, would you rather be the lead or in the chorus?"
日记主题
Describe a time when you felt part of a 'chorus' of people, either literally or metaphorically.
Write about a song whose chorus always makes you feel happy or nostalgic.
Imagine you are a member of an ancient Greek chorus. What would you say about the world today?
How does the 'dawn chorus' of birds affect your mood in the morning?
Discuss the importance of harmony in a chorus and how it relates to teamwork in real life.
常见问题
10 个问题While both refer to groups of singers, a 'choir' is typically associated with religious or classical music, such as a church choir. A 'chorus' is more often used in the context of musical theater, opera, or as a term for the repeated section of a popular song. In a song, you would never call the repeated part a 'choir'.
In many cases, yes, they are used as synonyms. However, technically, a 'refrain' refers to the repeated lyrics or lines of text, while a 'chorus' refers to the entire musical section, including the melody and backing instruments. In pop music, 'chorus' is the much more common term.
The plural of chorus is 'choruses'. You simply add '-es' to the end of the word because it ends in the letter 's'. Avoid using 'chori' or 'chorusses', as these are incorrect in modern English.
It is called a 'Greek chorus' because it originated in Ancient Greek theater. This group of performers would dance and sing, providing background information and commentary on the play's themes and characters to help the audience understand the story.
The phrase 'in chorus' is an idiom that means a group of people are saying or doing something at the exact same time. For example, if a whole class of students says 'Good morning' together, they are speaking in chorus.
A 'dawn chorus' refers to the period at sunrise when many different species of birds sing together. It is most common in the spring and is a way for birds to defend their territory and attract mates.
Yes, 'chorus' can be used as a verb, meaning to sing or speak in a chorus. For example, you could say, 'The children chorused their thanks.' However, it is much more commonly used as a noun.
A chorus effect is an electronic audio effect that makes a single voice or instrument sound like a group. It does this by creating copies of the sound, slightly changing their pitch and timing, and mixing them back together.
In a standard pop song, the chorus usually repeats three or four times. It typically appears after the first verse, the second verse, and then often repeats twice at the end of the song to make it more memorable.
Not necessarily, but in many musical genres, the chorus is designed to be the most energetic and 'biggest' part of the song. This often means it is louder or has more instruments playing than the verses.
自我测试 200 个问题
Write a sentence using 'chorus' to describe a song you like.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Describe a 'dawn chorus' in two sentences.
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Use the phrase 'in chorus' in a sentence about a classroom.
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Explain the difference between a verse and a chorus.
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Write a sentence about a 'chorus of disapproval'.
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Describe the role of a Greek chorus in ancient theater.
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Write a sentence using 'chorus' as a verb.
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Use 'chorus' in a sentence about a professional performance.
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Create a sentence using 'catchy chorus'.
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Write a sentence about joining a local chorus.
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Use 'chorus of voices' in a sentence about a protest.
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Write a sentence about a 'chorus effect' on a musical instrument.
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Describe a 'chorus line' in a sentence.
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Use 'chorus of praise' in a sentence about a book.
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Write a sentence about the 'chorus master'.
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Use 'chorus' to describe a sound in nature (not birds).
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Write a sentence about a 'double chorus'.
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Use 'chorus' in a sentence about a historical event.
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Write a sentence about a 'chorus of boos'.
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Describe the feeling of singing in a large chorus.
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Describe what a chorus is to a friend who doesn't know the word.
Read this aloud:
你说的:
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Tell me about a song with a chorus you really like.
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Have you ever heard the dawn chorus? Describe the experience.
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Explain why a chorus is important in a pop song.
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Discuss a time when a group of people said something 'in chorus'.
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What are the benefits of singing in a community chorus?
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你说的:
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How does a 'chorus of disapproval' affect a politician?
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Describe the difference between a chorus and a choir.
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If you were a songwriter, how would you make your chorus stand out?
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Why do you think the Greek chorus was used in ancient plays?
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Do you prefer songs with long choruses or short ones? Why?
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What is the most famous chorus you can think of?
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How does a 'chorus effect' change the sound of a guitar?
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Describe a 'chorus line' in a Broadway show.
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How do you feel when a whole stadium sings a chorus together?
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Would you rather sing a solo or be in the chorus? Why?
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What kind of emotions can a 'chorus of voices' convey?
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Explain the phrase 'chorus of praise'.
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How has the use of the chorus changed from ancient times to today?
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Describe the sound of a 'chorus of frogs'.
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Listen to the song. How many times do you hear the chorus?
Listen to the speaker. Does the chorus of the song have the same words as the verse?
Listen to the recording. What group is singing in the background?
Listen to the news report. What was the reaction to the new law?
Listen to the birds. Is this the dawn chorus?
Listen to the teacher. What did the students do in chorus?
Listen to the music. Is there a chorus effect on the vocals?
Listen to the play. Who is speaking right now?
Listen to the interview. Why did she join the chorus?
Listen to the song. Which part is the chorus?
Listen to the audio. How many people are in this chorus?
Listen to the description. What is a chorus master?
Listen to the clip. Is the chorus louder than the verse?
Listen to the protest. What is the chorus of voices saying?
Listen to the lecture. What was the role of the chorus in Greece?
/ 200 correct
Perfect score!
Summary
The word 'chorus' is essential for describing both the structure of music and the power of collective human voices. Whether it's the part of a song you can't stop humming or a group of fifty people singing in perfect harmony, 'chorus' always implies repetition, unity, and shared expression. Example: 'The whole crowd joined in for the final chorus of the anthem.'
- A chorus is the catchy, repeated part of a song that usually contains the main message and is easy for listeners to remember and sing.
- It also refers to a group of singers who perform together as a team, often seen in schools, churches, or professional theater productions.
- In ancient history, a chorus was a group of actors who explained the story to the audience in Greek plays through song and dance.
- Metaphorically, it describes a situation where many people express the same opinion at once, like a 'chorus of cheers' or a 'chorus of complaints'.
The 'CH' Rule
Always remember that 'chorus' starts with 'CH' but sounds like 'K'. This is common in words of Greek origin like 'Chemistry' and 'Character'.
Verse vs. Chorus
If you are describing a song, remember: the verse tells the story (changes), and the chorus gives the message (repeats).
Metaphorical Use
Use 'a chorus of...' to describe any group reaction. It sounds much more professional than just saying 'many people said...'.
Stress the Start
Put the emphasis on the first part: CHO-rus. Don't let the 'us' sound too long or strong.
例句
I like to sing in the school chorus every Friday.
相关内容
这个词在其他语言中
更多music词汇
accordion
A1一种通过拉伸和挤压风箱来演奏的乐器。空气流过簧片,发出悠扬的声音。
album
A1专辑是歌曲的合集,或者是放照片的本子。
band
A1一组一起演奏音乐的音乐家。
banjo
A1班卓琴是一种有圆形琴身、长琴颈和四到五根弦的乐器。它发出清脆、明亮的声音,主要用于民间音乐、乡村音乐和蓝草音乐。
bar
A1小节是音乐中划分节拍的单位,通常由小节线隔开。
bass
A1低音(Bass)是音乐中最低的音域,或者是乐曲中声音最低的部分。
bass clef
A1A musical symbol placed at the beginning of a staff to indicate that the notes represent lower pitches. It is used for low instruments like the cello and the left-hand part of piano music.
bassoon
A1A bassoon is a large woodwind instrument with a very long tube and a double reed. It produces deep, low sounds and is an important part of an orchestra.
beat
A1音乐中可以拍手或跺脚的规律脉动或节奏。它是歌曲中时间的基本单位。
castanets
A1一种贝壳状的木制打击乐器,拿在手中拍打发出清脆的响声,常用于西班牙舞蹈。