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A1 noun #8,000 最常用 11分钟阅读

ukulele

前8,000

开始练习例句笔记与提示 ukulele 30秒了解

解析 ukulele in your Level:

At the A1 level, a ukulele is simply a small musical instrument. It looks like a little guitar. It has four strings. You play it with your hands. It makes a happy sound. Many people play it on the beach or in school. It is easy to carry because it is small. You can say 'I play the ukulele' or 'I have a ukulele.' It is a friendly word for beginners to learn when talking about hobbies and music. You might see children playing it in a classroom. It is usually made of wood. You can strum it or pluck the strings. It is a very popular instrument because it is not very expensive. If you like music, you might want to learn the ukulele first because it is simpler than a big guitar. You can sing songs while you play it.

At the A2 level, we can describe the ukulele in more detail. It is a four-stringed instrument that originated in Hawaii. It is smaller than a guitar and has a higher pitch. There are different types of ukuleles, such as the soprano, which is the most common small size. People often play it to create a relaxed or tropical atmosphere. You can use the verb 'to strum' to describe how you move your fingers across all the strings at once. In a sentence, you might say, 'She is learning how to play the ukulele through online videos.' It is also common to see people playing it in groups called 'ukulele clubs.' The strings are usually made of nylon, which is soft on the fingers, making it a great choice for new musicians.

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At the B1 level, you can discuss the cultural and practical aspects of the ukulele. It is widely recognized as a symbol of Hawaiian culture, though its roots are actually Portuguese. The instrument's name is often translated as 'jumping flea,' reflecting the energetic playing style. In terms of construction, ukuleles can be made from various woods, with Koa being the most traditional and sought-after. You might encounter the word in discussions about music education or DIY hobbies. For example, 'The ukulele's popularity has surged recently due to its affordability and the vast amount of resources available for self-taught players.' It is also important to note the different tunings; while most use G-C-E-A, the baritone ukulele uses a different system, making it sound more like a standard guitar.

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At the B2 level, the ukulele can be examined as a versatile instrument in modern music production. While it was once seen as a novelty or a toy, many professional musicians now incorporate it into their arrangements to provide a specific acoustic texture. The word might appear in reviews of indie-folk albums or in technical manuals about stringed instruments. You should be comfortable discussing its 'bright, staccato' sound and its 'portability.' In a more complex sentence, you could say, 'The resurgence of the ukulele in mainstream pop music can be attributed to its unique ability to convey both whimsical joy and poignant melancholy.' You might also learn about hybrid instruments like the 'banjolele' or the 'electric ukulele,' which expand the instrument's sonic range.

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At the C1 level, the ukulele is discussed within the context of ethnomusicology and historical adaptation. You might explore how the Portuguese 'machete de braga' was transformed by Hawaiian craftsmen into the modern ukulele, influenced by the patronage of the Hawaiian monarchy. The term can be used in nuanced discussions about cultural appropriation versus appreciation. For instance, 'The global dissemination of the ukulele serves as a fascinating case study in how a localized cultural icon can be adapted and reinterpreted across different musical traditions.' You would also be expected to understand more technical jargon, such as 'fretboard intonation,' 're-entrant tuning,' and the 'harmonic resonance' of different body shapes. The ukulele is no longer just a 'small guitar' but a specific cultural artifact with a complex history.

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At the C2 level, the word 'ukulele' might be used in highly specialized academic or artistic contexts. You might analyze the 'idiosyncratic' nature of the instrument's re-entrant tuning, where the fourth string is tuned higher than the third, which contributes to its distinctive 'campanella' sound. Discussions could involve the 'sociopolitical implications' of the ukulele's role in Hawaiian sovereignty movements or its 'ubiquity' in digital-era minimalist compositions. A C2 user might write: 'The ukulele’s paradoxical status—simultaneously a symbol of colonial influence and a cornerstone of indigenous Hawaiian identity—underscores the complexities of its organological evolution.' At this level, the focus is on the instrument's place within the broader tapestry of global music history and its semiotic significance in contemporary media.

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开始练习例句笔记与提示

ukulele 30秒了解

A small, four-stringed musical instrument from Hawaii, similar to a guitar but with a higher pitch.
Easy to learn and portable, making it popular for beginners and travelers alike.
Available in four main sizes: soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone, each with unique tones.
Culturally significant to Hawaii, symbolizing the 'Aloha' spirit and island lifestyle.

The word ukulele refers to a member of the lute family of instruments. It generally employs four nylon strings. The ukulele originated in the 19th century as a Hawaiian adaptation of the Portuguese machete, a small guitar-like instrument, which was introduced to Hawaii by Portuguese immigrants, mainly from Madeira and the Azores. It gained great popularity elsewhere in the United States during the early 20th century and from there spread internationally. The tone and volume of the instrument vary with size and construction. Ukuleles commonly come in four sizes: soprano, concert, tenor, and baritone. People use the ukulele in a wide variety of musical genres, including jazz, country music, pop, world music, and rock. It is particularly beloved for its portability and the relatively short learning curve for beginners to play basic chords.

Musical Classification: The ukulele is a chordophone, specifically a necked bowl lute or necked box lute, depending on the body shape. It is distinct from the guitar due to its size and tuning.
Cultural Symbolism: In Hawaii, the ukulele is more than just an instrument; it is a symbol of Hawaiian culture and the 'Aloha' spirit. It was championed by King Kalākaua, who incorporated it into performances at royal gatherings.

During the sunset beach party, Sarah pulled out her ukulele and began to play a cheerful melody that had everyone singing along.

The instrument's name is often translated as 'jumping flea' in Hawaiian, possibly due to the way the player's fingers move across the fretboard. Another interpretation suggested by Queen Liliʻuokalani is that the name means 'the gift that came here,' derived from the Hawaiian words 'uku' (gift or reward) and 'lele' (to come). Regardless of the etymological debate, the word is universally recognized today. You will hear this word in music classrooms, at tropical-themed events, and in discussions about indie folk music. Because of its bright, staccato sound, it is frequently used to evoke a sense of happiness, relaxation, or nostalgia. Many contemporary artists have brought the ukulele back into the mainstream, proving that it is a versatile tool for professional songwriting and not just a toy or a novelty item.

Physical Characteristics: Standard ukuleles are made of wood, though plastic versions exist. High-quality ones are often made of Koa wood, native to Hawaii, which provides a warm, sweet tone.

The street performer strummed his ukulele with such speed that his hands became a blur to the passing tourists.

I decided to pack my ukulele for the camping trip because it fits perfectly in my backpack.

Learning the ukulele is often recommended as a great first step for children interested in string instruments.

The hauntingly beautiful ukulele cover of 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' remains one of the most famous recordings of the instrument.

Modern Usage: Today, the ukulele is a staple in elementary music education and has a massive presence on social media platforms where creators share 'uke' tutorials.

Using the word ukulele in a sentence is straightforward, as it functions as a standard countable noun. You can use it as the subject of a sentence, the object of a verb, or after a preposition. When describing the act of playing, we typically use the definite article 'the' (e.g., 'playing the ukulele'). However, when referring to a specific physical object, we use 'a' or 'an' (e.g., 'I bought a ukulele'). Note that although 'ukulele' starts with a vowel letter 'u', it is pronounced with a 'y' sound (/juːkəˈleɪli/), so we use 'a' rather than 'an' in standard English, though 'an' is sometimes seen in older texts or specific dialects.

As a Direct Object: 'She strummed her ukulele gently while sitting on the porch.' Here, the instrument is the thing being strummed.
In a Prepositional Phrase: 'He wrote a whole album with nothing but a ukulele.' This indicates the tool or means used to create the music.

My grandfather gave me his vintage ukulele, which was made of solid mahogany.

You can also use 'ukulele' as a modifier for other nouns, creating compound nouns like 'ukulele strings', 'ukulele case', or 'ukulele lesson'. In these instances, the word describes what kind of object or event you are talking about. When talking about a group of people playing together, common terms include 'ukulele ensemble' or 'ukulele orchestra'. The versatility of the word allows it to fit into formal descriptions of musical history as well as casual conversations about hobbies. For example, 'The evolution of the ukulele tracks the migration patterns of Portuguese sailors' is a formal academic sentence, whereas 'I’m bringing my uke to the party' is a common informal usage.

The ukulele chords for this song are very easy to learn.

Every Tuesday, the community center hosts a ukulele workshop for seniors.

Describing the Sound: Adjectives often paired with the instrument include 'plucky', 'bright', 'cheerful', 'tinkling', or 'mellow'. For example: 'The ukulele's bright tone filled the room.'

Is that a soprano or a tenor ukulele?

I need to buy a new tuner for my ukulele before the concert tonight.

You are likely to encounter the word ukulele in various cultural and educational settings. In schools, particularly in North America and Europe, the ukulele has become a popular alternative to the recorder in primary music education. Teachers find it more engaging and less piercing to the ear. In Hawaii, the word is ubiquitous, appearing on street signs, in festival names like 'The Ukulele Festival Hawaii', and in daily conversation. You will also hear it in the context of indie-pop music, where many artists use the instrument to add a unique, acoustic texture to their tracks. On the internet, 'ukulele' is a high-traffic keyword on YouTube and TikTok, where millions of people search for tutorials, covers, and reviews of different brands like Kala, Lanikai, or Martin.

In Popular Media: The instrument was famously played by Marilyn Monroe in 'Some Like It Hot' and by Elvis Presley in 'Blue Hawaii', cementing its place in Hollywood history.
In Music Stores: When visiting a music shop, you will see a dedicated section for 'ukuleles', often categorized by size (soprano, concert, tenor, baritone) and wood type.

The travel vlog featured a local musician playing the ukulele at a luau in Maui.

Beyond the musical world, the word pops up in travel brochures and tourism advertisements for tropical destinations. It is used to evoke a specific 'island vibe' or a sense of relaxation. In recent years, the 'ukulele' has also been discussed in the context of digital culture; for instance, the 'ukulele apology video' became a meme after a famous YouTuber used the instrument to address a controversy. This shows how the word and the instrument have moved beyond their traditional roots into the broader cultural consciousness. Whether you are at a local 'uke jam' at a community center or watching a big-budget movie, the word ukulele is never far from the ears of those who appreciate stringed music.

The radio host announced that the next track would feature a virtuoso ukulele solo.

'Do you sell ukulele straps here?' the customer asked the shopkeeper.

Festivals and Events: The annual Ukulele Festival in Honolulu attracts thousands of players from around the globe, making it a key term in the international music event calendar.

The documentary explored the history of the ukulele from Madeira to the Royal Hawaiian Court.

I saw a ukulele hanging on the wall of the cafe, signed by a famous musician.

One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with the word ukulele is its spelling. Because of the way it is pronounced in English (/juːkəˈleɪli/), many people are tempted to spell it 'ukelele' or even 'youkulele'. While 'ukelele' is an accepted variant in some dictionaries (especially British ones), the standard Hawaiian and American spelling is 'ukulele'. Another common error is related to pronunciation. In Hawaii, the traditional pronunciation is /ˌuːkuːˈlele/ (oo-koo-leh-leh), but in the rest of the English-speaking world, it is almost always /ˌjuːkəˈleɪli/ (yoo-kuh-lay-lee). Using the Hawaiian pronunciation outside of Hawaii might confuse some people, while using the 'yoo' pronunciation in Hawaii might be seen as a tourist's mistake.

Article Usage: Mistake: 'I want to buy an ukulele.' Correct: 'I want to buy a ukulele.' Why? Because 'ukulele' starts with a consonant 'y' sound, not a vowel sound.
Confusion with Guitar: Mistake: Calling it a 'mini guitar'. While it looks like one, calling it a 'ukulele' is more accurate and respectful of its distinct musical identity.

Incorrect: He is playing ukulele. Correct: He is playing the ukulele.

Grammatically, some learners forget that 'ukulele' is a countable noun. You cannot say 'I have much ukulele' if you mean you have many instruments; you must say 'I have many ukuleles'. Additionally, people sometimes confuse the different sizes. If someone asks for a 'soprano ukulele' and you give them a 'baritone', they will be disappointed because the baritone is much larger and tuned differently (D-G-B-E, like a guitar). Finally, don't confuse the 'ukulele' with the 'mandolin' or 'banjo'. Although they are all small stringed instruments, the mandolin has eight strings and a very different sound, while the banjo has a drum-like body and a metallic tone.

I accidentally spelled ukulele with an 'e' in the middle on my music essay.

Don't call it a 'toy ukulele' unless it really is a toy; many are professional instruments.

Capitalization: Unless it's at the start of a sentence or part of a proper title, 'ukulele' should not be capitalized. It is a common noun.

Is the ukulele a Hawaiian word? Yes, it is!

The teacher corrected the student who called the ukulele a 'small guitar'.

When discussing the ukulele, it is helpful to know related instruments and terms that might be used in similar contexts. The most obvious relative is the guitar, but the ukulele is much smaller and usually has only four strings. Another similar instrument is the machete de braga, the Portuguese ancestor of the ukulele. In the world of folk music, the mandolin and the banjo are often mentioned alongside the ukulele because they are also small, portable, and have a high-pitched sound. However, each has a distinct construction and playing style. The term 'uke' is the most common synonym, used almost interchangeably in casual settings. If you are looking for a more technical term, you might refer to it as a 'Hawaiian chordophone'.

Uke vs. Guitar: The guitar has 6 strings and a deeper range. The ukulele has 4 strings and a higher, 'sweeter' range. Chords are shaped differently on each.
Uke vs. Mandolin: A mandolin has 8 metal strings (paired in 4) and a teardrop shape. It is much louder and sharper than the mellow nylon-stringed ukulele.
Uke vs. Banjo: The banjo uses a drum-head body to amplify sound, creating a 'twangy' noise, whereas the ukulele uses a wooden soundbox for a 'woody' resonance.

I couldn't decide between buying a mandolin or a ukulele, but I chose the ukulele for its softer sound.

In terms of size variations, you will hear terms like 'sopranino' (even smaller than soprano) and 'bass ukulele' (which sounds like a bass guitar). There is also the 'guitalele', which is a hybrid between a guitar and a ukulele, having six strings but the size of a tenor ukulele. Understanding these alternatives helps in precisely describing the sound or the specific instrument being used. In songwriting, musicians might swap a ukulele for a charango (a small Andean stringed instrument) or a cavaquinho (another Portuguese relative) to achieve a different ethnic or tonal flavor. However, the ukulele remains the most popular and accessible of all these options.

The band's sound is a mix of ukulele and electronic beats.

If you find the ukulele too small, you might prefer the concert or tenor sizes.

Register and Tone: 'Uke' is informal/casual. 'Ukulele' is neutral/standard. 'Hawaiian four-string' is descriptive/formal.

The ukulele is often compared to the cavaquinho from Portugal.

A baritone ukulele is tuned just like the top four strings of a guitar.

How Formal Is It?

趣味小知识

Queen Liliʻuokalani, the last reigning monarch of Hawaii, preferred a different poetic translation: 'the gift that came here.' This was intended to honor the instrument's arrival from overseas and its integration into Hawaiian life.

发音指南

UK /ˌjuːkəˈleɪli/

US /ˌjuːkəˈleɪli/

The primary stress is on the third syllable: u-ku-LE-le.

押韵词

daily gaily Bailey Hailey scaly shaly staly frailly

常见错误

Pronouncing it 'oo-koo-lay-lay' (this is closer to Hawaiian but rare in general English).
Pronouncing it 'yook-a-leel'.
Missing the final 'ee' sound.
Stressing the first syllable.
Pronouncing 'u' as 'uh' instead of 'yoo'.

难度评级

阅读 1/5

The word is common and easy to recognize in text.

写作 2/5

The spelling can be tricky due to the 'u' and 'e' placement.

口语 2/5

The standard English pronunciation differs from the spelling.

听力 1/5

The word has a very distinct sound and is easily identified.

接下来学什么

前置知识

music guitar string play small

接下来学习

instrument orchestra melody rhythm acoustic

高级

chordophone fretboard resonance re-entrant intonation

需要掌握的语法

Using 'a' vs 'an' with 'u'

A ukulele (correct) vs An ukulele (incorrect because of the 'y' sound).

Musical instruments with 'the'

I play the ukulele. (General skill uses 'the').

Pluralization of nouns ending in 'e'

One ukulele, two ukuleles.

Compound nouns

Ukulele strings (The first noun acts as an adjective).

Gerunds as subjects

Playing the ukulele is fun.

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按水平分级的例句

I have a small ukulele.

J'ai un petit ukulélé.

Use 'a' before 'ukulele' because it starts with a 'y' sound.

Do you play the ukulele?

Est-ce que tu joues de l'ukulélé ?

We use 'the' with musical instruments when talking about the skill.

The ukulele is brown.

L'ukulélé est marron.

Subject + is + adjective.

She likes the ukulele.

Elle aime l'ukulélé.

Third person singular 'likes'.

This ukulele has four strings.

Cet ukulélé a quatre cordes.

'This' indicates a specific object nearby.

I want to learn ukulele.

Je veux apprendre l'ukulélé.

'Learn' followed by the name of the instrument.

The ukulele is on the table.

L'ukulélé est sur la table.

Preposition 'on' shows location.

My ukulele is very light.

Mon ukulélé est très léger.

Possessive adjective 'my'.

He strums the ukulele every evening.

Il gratte l'ukulélé chaque soir.

'Strums' is a specific verb for playing string instruments.

Is a ukulele smaller than a guitar?

Est-ce qu'un ukulélé est plus petit qu'une guitare ?

Comparative 'smaller than'.

They are playing ukuleles at the beach.

Ils jouent de l'ukulélé à la plage.

Plural form 'ukuleles'.

I bought a cheap ukulele for my trip.

J'ai acheté un ukulélé pas cher pour mon voyage.

Adjective 'cheap' before the noun.

The ukulele sounds very happy.

L'ukulélé sonne très joyeux.

Verb 'sounds' followed by an adjective.

Can you show me a ukulele chord?

Peux-tu me montrer un accord d'ukulélé ?

Compound noun 'ukulele chord'.

She sings while playing her ukulele.

Elle chante tout en jouant de son ukulélé.

'While' + present participle.

The ukulele case is blue.

L'étui de l'ukulélé est bleu.

Compound noun 'ukulele case'.

The ukulele originated in Hawaii in the 19th century.

L'ukulélé est né à Hawaï au XIXe siècle.

Past tense 'originated'.

Most ukuleles are made of wood like mahogany or Koa.

La plupart des ukulélés sont faits de bois comme l'acajou ou le Koa.

Passive voice 'are made of'.

If I practiced more, I could play the ukulele better.

Si je m'entraînais plus, je pourrais mieux jouer de l'ukulélé.

Second conditional 'If + past, could + verb'.

The ukulele is famous for its bright and cheerful tone.

L'ukulélé est célèbre pour son ton brillant et joyeux.

'Famous for' + noun phrase.

You need to tune your ukulele before you start playing.

Tu dois accorder ton ukulélé avant de commencer à jouer.

'Need to' + infinitive.

Many pop songs can be easily adapted for the ukulele.

Beaucoup de chansons pop peuvent être facilement adaptées pour l'ukulélé.

Modal passive 'can be adapted'.

I prefer the concert ukulele because it has a fuller sound.

Je préfère l'ukulélé concert parce qu'il a un son plus plein.

'Fuller' is the comparative of 'full'.

Is the ukulele difficult to learn for a beginner?

L'ukulélé est-il difficile à apprendre pour un débutant ?

Adjective + 'to' + infinitive.

The ukulele has seen a massive resurgence in popularity recently.

L'ukulélé a connu un regain de popularité massif récemment.

Present perfect 'has seen'.

Despite its small size, the ukulele can produce a surprisingly loud sound.

Malgré sa petite taille, l'ukulélé peut produire un son étonnamment fort.

'Despite' + noun phrase.

Professional musicians often use a tenor ukulele for its better resonance.

Les musiciens professionnels utilisent souvent un ukulélé ténor pour sa meilleure résonance.

Adverb 'often' before the verb.

The ukulele's strings are typically tuned to G, C, E, and A.

Les cordes de l'ukulélé sont généralement accordées en Sol, Do, Mi et La.

Adverb 'typically' modifying the verb.

Learning the ukulele requires patience and consistent practice.

Apprendre l'ukulélé demande de la patience et une pratique régulière.

Gerund 'Learning' as the subject.

The artist performed a soulful ballad on an electric ukulele.

L'artiste a interprété une ballade émouvante sur un ukulélé électrique.

Preposition 'on' for playing an instrument.

Ukulele enthusiasts from all over the world gathered for the festival.

Des passionnés d'ukulélé du monde entier se sont réunis pour le festival.

Compound noun 'Ukulele enthusiasts'.

It is widely believed that the ukulele was inspired by Portuguese instruments.

Il est largement admis que l'ukulélé a été inspiré par des instruments portugais.

Passive construction 'It is widely believed that'.

The ukulele serves as a poignant reminder of Hawaii's rich cultural heritage.

L'ukulélé sert de rappel poignant du riche patrimoine culturel d'Hawaï.

'Serves as' + noun phrase.

The intricate craftsmanship of a vintage ukulele can fetch a high price at auction.

L'artisanat complexe d'un ukulélé vintage peut atteindre un prix élevé aux enchères.

Modal 'can' + base verb 'fetch'.

Critics argue that the ukulele is often unfairly dismissed as a mere novelty.

Les critiques soutiennent que l'ukulélé est souvent injustement rejeté comme une simple nouveauté.

Passive voice 'is dismissed'.

The ukulele's unique re-entrant tuning differentiates it from most other stringed instruments.

L'accordage rentrant unique de l'ukulélé le différencie de la plupart des autres instruments à cordes.

Verb 'differentiates' with object and preposition 'from'.

The transition from the Portuguese machete to the Hawaiian ukulele was a gradual process.

La transition de la machette portugaise à l'ukulélé hawaïen a été un processus progressif.

Noun 'transition' with 'from... to'.

Contemporary composers are increasingly exploring the ukulele's potential in orchestral settings.

Les compositeurs contemporains explorent de plus en plus le potentiel de l'ukulélé dans les contextes orchestraux.

Present continuous 'are exploring'.

The ukulele's portability makes it an ideal companion for traveling musicians.

La portabilité de l'ukulélé en fait un compagnon idéal pour les musiciens itinérants.

Verb 'makes' + object + adjective/noun.

The ukulele’s cultural significance was bolstered by the patronage of King Kalākaua.

L'importance culturelle de l'ukulélé a été renforcée par le patronage du roi Kalākaua.

Passive voice 'was bolstered by'.

The ukulele's ethereal qualities are best showcased in minimalist arrangements.

Les qualités éthérées de l'ukulélé sont le mieux mises en valeur dans des arrangements minimalistes.

Passive 'are showcased'.

One must appreciate the nuanced tonal variations inherent in different ukulele body shapes.

Il faut apprécier les variations tonales nuancées inhérentes aux différentes formes de corps d'ukulélé.

Formal 'One must'.

The ubiquity of the ukulele in modern folk-pop has led to a saturation of the market.

L'ubiquité de l'ukulélé dans le folk-pop moderne a conduit à une saturation du marché.

Present perfect 'has led to'.

The ukulele's humble origins belied its eventual status as a global phenomenon.

Les origines humbles de l'ukulélé cachaient son statut final de phénomène mondial.

Past tense 'belied'.

The player executed a series of complex arpeggios on the tenor ukulele with breathtaking precision.

Le joueur a exécuté une série d'arpèges complexes sur l'ukulélé ténor avec une précision époustouflante.

Prepositional phrase 'with breathtaking precision'.

Scholars continue to debate the linguistic nuances of the word 'ukulele' itself.

Les érudits continuent de débattre des nuances linguistiques du mot 'ukulélé' lui-même.

Verb 'continue' + to-infinitive.

The ukulele's resonance is fundamentally altered by the density of the wood used in its construction.

La résonance de l'ukulélé est fondamentalement altérée par la densité du bois utilisé dans sa fabrication.

Passive voice 'is altered by'.

In her latest concerto, the composer juxtaposes the delicate strumming of a ukulele against a backdrop of heavy brass.

Dans son dernier concerto, la compositrice juxtapose le grattage délicat d'un ukulélé sur fond de cuivres lourds.

Present simple for describing artistic works.

近义词

uke four-string guitar small guitar Hawaiian guitar chordophone

反义词

double bass cello electric bass

常见搭配

play the ukulele

strum a ukulele

ukulele strings

ukulele chords

tune a ukulele

soprano ukulele

ukulele case

electric ukulele

ukulele ensemble

vintage ukulele

常用短语

ukulele jam

— An informal gathering where people play ukuleles together.

Are you coming to the ukulele jam tonight?

ukulele cover

— A version of a song originally played on another instrument, performed on a ukulele.

His ukulele cover of 'Bohemian Rhapsody' went viral.

ukulele lesson

— A session where someone is taught how to play the instrument.

I have my first ukulele lesson on Monday.

ukulele tab

— A form of musical notation that shows where to put fingers on the strings.

I found the ukulele tabs for that song online.

pick up a ukulele

— To start playing or learning the instrument.

It's never too late to pick up a ukulele.

standard tuning

— The most common way to tune the strings (G-C-E-A).

Most beginners start with standard tuning on their ukulele.

re-entrant tuning

— A tuning style where the strings are not in order from lowest to highest pitch.

The ukulele's high G string is an example of re-entrant tuning.

uke player

— A person who plays the ukulele.

She is a talented uke player in a folk band.

ukulele strap

— A piece of fabric used to hold the instrument while playing.

Using a ukulele strap makes it easier to play while standing up.

low G tuning

— A variation where the fourth string is tuned an octave lower.

Low G tuning gives the ukulele a deeper, more guitar-like sound.

容易混淆的词

ukulele vs guitar

A guitar is larger, has 6 strings, and uses a different tuning.

ukulele vs mandolin

A mandolin has 8 metal strings and a sharp, piercing sound.

ukulele vs banjo

A banjo has a circular body with a drum-like skin.

习语与表达

"strumming the same uke"

— To be in total agreement or doing the same thing as someone else (metaphorical/slang).

We're both strumming the same uke when it comes to the new office policy.

informal

"as simple as a C chord"

— Extremely easy to do (since C is the easiest chord on a ukulele).

Fixing this computer is as simple as a C chord.

informal

"tuning your own ukulele"

— Taking care of your own business or following your own path.

He doesn't care what others think; he's just tuning his own ukulele.

informal

"ukulele weather"

— Warm, sunny, and tropical weather suitable for playing outdoors.

It's finally ukulele weather! Let's go to the park.

informal

"flea-jumping fingers"

— Having very fast, agile fingers when playing an instrument.

Look at his flea-jumping fingers on that solo!

informal

"breaking a string"

— To fail or have something go wrong suddenly.

The project was going well until we broke a string with the budget.

metaphorical

"one-string uke"

— Someone who only talks about one topic (similar to 'one-trick pony').

Don't ask him about politics; he's a one-string uke.

informal

"all uke and no tune"

— Having the equipment or appearance but lacking the actual skill.

He has all the fancy gear, but he's all uke and no tune.

slang

"the uke of the party"

— The person who brings the fun or entertainment.

With his jokes, he really was the uke of the party.

playful

"strumming along"

— Going with the flow without making much effort.

I'm just strumming along until the weekend arrives.

informal

容易混淆

ukulele vs ukelele

It is an alternative spelling.

Ukulele is the standard Hawaiian spelling, while ukelele is often used in the UK.

The dictionary lists both ukulele and ukelele.

ukulele vs lute

They are in the same family.

A lute is a historical instrument with a deep, round back; a ukulele is a modern adaptation.

The ukulele is a type of lute.

ukulele vs cavaquinho

They look very similar.

The cavaquinho is Portuguese and usually has metal strings; the ukulele has nylon strings.

The cavaquinho is the ancestor of the ukulele.

ukulele vs viola

Both are string instruments.

A viola is played with a bow and belongs to the violin family.

I play the viola, but I want to learn the ukulele.

ukulele vs charango

Both are small and exotic-looking.

The charango is from the Andes and traditionally made from an armadillo shell.

The charango has ten strings, unlike the four-stringed ukulele.

句型

I have a [noun].

I have a ukulele.

[Subject] is [adjective] than [Object].

A ukulele is smaller than a guitar.

[Subject] is famous for [noun/gerund].

The ukulele is famous for being easy to play.

Despite [noun], [Subject] [verb].

Despite its size, the ukulele sounds loud.

[Subject] serves as a [noun].

The ukulele serves as a cultural icon.

The [noun] of [Subject] underscores [Object].

The ubiquity of the ukulele underscores its global appeal.

Do you like [noun]?

Do you like the ukulele?

It is made of [material].

It is made of Koa wood.

词族

名词

ukulelist

ukuleleist

如何使用

frequency

Common in musical, educational, and travel contexts.

常见错误

Spelling it 'ukelele' → ukulele
While 'ukelele' is sometimes accepted, 'ukulele' is the standard Hawaiian and American spelling. Using the 'u' is more professional.
Using 'an' before ukulele → a ukulele
Because 'ukulele' starts with a 'y' sound (consonant), we use 'a'. 'An' is only for vowel sounds.
Tuning it like a guitar → G-C-E-A
Standard ukuleles have their own tuning. If you tune them like a guitar, the strings might snap or the chords will sound wrong.
Strumming with a hard plastic pick → Strumming with fingers or felt
Plastic picks can damage the nylon strings and create a harsh clicking sound that ruins the ukulele's tone.
Holding it too tight → Holding it loosely against the body
If you squeeze the body of the ukulele too hard, you dampen the vibration and the sound becomes quiet and dull.

小贴士

Start with the C Chord

The C major chord only requires one finger on the third fret of the bottom string. It's the perfect way to get your first sound out of the instrument immediately.

Keep it Tuned

New nylon strings stretch a lot. You might need to tune your ukulele every few minutes when you first get it. Don't worry, they will settle after a few days of playing.

Relax Your Wrist

When strumming, keep your wrist loose and bouncy. The movement should come from the wrist, not the whole arm, to get that classic, light ukulele rhythm.

Size Matters

If you have large hands, consider a tenor or concert size. The soprano is very small and can feel cramped for adults who are just starting out.

Short Sessions

Practicing for 15 minutes every day is much better than practicing for two hours once a week. Your muscle memory builds faster with frequent, short sessions.

Use a Gig Bag

Even a thin padded bag can protect your ukulele from scratches and temperature changes. It's a small investment that keeps your instrument safe.

Listen to the Greats

Listen to artists like Jake Shimabukuro to see what the instrument is truly capable of. It will inspire you to move beyond simple strumming.

Join a Uke Group

Playing with others is the fastest way to improve. Look for a local 'ukulele jam' or club. They are usually very welcoming to beginners.

Record Yourself

Use your phone to record your practice. Listening back helps you identify where your rhythm might be off or where your chords aren't clear.

Don't Be Too Serious

The ukulele is meant to be fun. If you hit a wrong note, just keep strumming. The 'happy' nature of the instrument makes most mistakes sound okay!

记住它

记忆技巧

Think of a 'YOU-KU-LAY-LEE'. 'You' can play it, it's 'Cool' (ku), and you 'Lay' it on your lap to play 'Lee' (cheerfully).

视觉联想

Imagine a tiny, smiling guitar wearing a Hawaiian flower lei and sunglasses on a sunny beach.

Word Web

Hawaii Strings Music Small Strum Happy Wood Hobby

挑战

Try to say 'The uke-playing ukulelist used a unique ukulele' three times fast without stumbling!

词源

The word 'ukulele' comes from the Hawaiian language. It was coined in the late 19th century to describe a small four-stringed guitar brought to the islands by Portuguese laborers. The most widely accepted literal translation is 'jumping flea' (uku meaning 'flea' and lele meaning 'to jump').

原始含义： Jumping flea, referring to the rapid movement of the player's fingers.

Austronesian (Hawaiian)

文化背景

While it is a fun instrument, it's important to respect its Hawaiian roots and not treat it as a 'joke' instrument.

In the UK and US, it's a staple of school music programs and indie-folk bands.

Israel Kamakawiwoʻole's 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' George Harrison was a massive fan and often gave them as gifts The 'SpongeBob SquarePants' theme song features a prominent ukulele

在生活中练习

真实语境

Music Class

Pick up your ukulele.
Strum four times.
Check your tuning.
Follow the chords.

Beach Party

Who brought the ukulele?
Play a happy song.
Can I try the uke?
Sing along with me.

Music Store

Do you have tenor ukuleles?
How much is this uke?
Does it come with a case?
I need new strings.

Online Tutorial

Welcome to this uke lesson.
Look at my fingers.
Slow down the video.
Subscribe for more uke tips.

Historical Discussion

The ukulele's Hawaiian roots.
King Kalākaua's influence.
Portuguese origins.
The jumping flea meaning.

对话开场白

"Have you ever tried playing the ukulele? It's much easier than it looks!"

"I'm thinking about buying a ukulele for my next vacation. Do you think it's a good idea?"

"What's your favorite song to hear played on a ukulele?"

"Did you know that 'ukulele' actually means 'jumping flea' in Hawaiian?"

"I saw a guy playing a tiny ukulele on the bus today. It was so cheerful!"

日记主题

If you could play any song on the ukulele perfectly right now, which one would it be and why?

Describe the sound of a ukulele using only five adjectives. Explain your choices.

Imagine you are a ukulele. Describe your journey from a piece of wood in a forest to a musical instrument.

Why do you think the ukulele has become so popular in schools around the world recently?

Write about a time you heard a piece of music that made you feel happy. Did it have a ukulele in it?

常见问题

10 个问题

A standard ukulele has four strings. These are usually made of nylon or a similar synthetic material, which gives the instrument its soft, sweet sound. Some special types might have more, but four is the traditional number.

Yes, the ukulele is widely considered one of the easiest instruments for beginners. Its small size makes it easy to hold, and the nylon strings are gentle on the fingers. Many songs can be played with just three or four simple chords.

The name is Hawaiian and most commonly translates to 'jumping flea.' This refers to the fast finger movements of the players. It was a nickname given to the instrument shortly after it was introduced to Hawaii in the 1800s.

The four main sizes are soprano (smallest), concert, tenor, and baritone (largest). The soprano is the most traditional, while the tenor is popular with professional performers for its louder volume and larger fretboard.

The standard tuning for soprano, concert, and tenor ukuleles is G-C-E-A. Interestingly, the G string is usually tuned higher than the C string, which is called re-entrant tuning. The baritone is tuned D-G-B-E.

Almost any song can be adapted for the ukulele. While some complex rock or classical pieces might sound different, the ukulele's versatility allows it to cover pop, jazz, folk, and even country music quite effectively.

Traditional high-end ukuleles are made from Koa wood, which is native to Hawaii. Other common woods include mahogany, spruce, and cedar. Each type of wood provides a slightly different tone and resonance.

Most people play the ukulele with their fingers, using their thumb or index finger to strum. However, some players use felt picks. Plastic guitar picks are usually avoided because they can damage the nylon strings and sound too harsh.

While there are very cheap plastic versions sold as toys, the ukulele is a serious musical instrument. High-quality ukuleles are handcrafted by skilled luthiers and used by professional musicians worldwide in concerts and recordings.

Israel Kamakawiwoʻole is perhaps the most famous, known for his medley of 'Somewhere Over the Rainbow' and 'What a Wonderful World.' Other famous players include Jake Shimabukuro and Grace VanderWaal.

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