Time Signature

C1 8+
Pronunciation Definitions Examples Grammatical Forms Origin and Evolution

Pronunciation: /taɪm ˈsɪɡnɪtʃər/

Definitions of time signature

noun A time signature is a notational convention used in Western musical notation to specify how many beats are in each measure and which note value constitutes one beat.

Example Sentences

A1 The time signature tells musicians how many beats are in each measure.

A2 In music, the time signature is written as two numbers stacked on top of each other.

B1 Understanding the time signature is crucial for maintaining the correct rhythm in a piece of music.

B2 Different genres of music may have unique time signatures that require specific attention.

C1 Musicians with advanced training can easily identify complex time signatures and play them accurately.

C2 Composers often experiment with unconventional time signatures to create innovative and engaging music.

Examples of time signature in a Sentence

formal The composer specified a 3/4 time signature for the piece.

informal Hey, can you tell me the time signature of this song?

slang I'm not sure about the time signature of that track, it's kind of funky.

figurative In life, we all march to the beat of our own time signature.

Grammatical Forms of time signature

plural

time signatures

comparative

more time signature

superlative

most time signature

present tense

time signature

future tense

will time signature

perfect tense

have time signature

continuous tense

is time-signaturing

singular

time signature

positive degree

time signature

infinitive

to time signature

gerund

time-signaturing

participle

time-signatured

Origin and Evolution of time signature

First Known Use: 1601 year
Language of Origin: English
Story behind the word: The term 'time signature' originated from the field of music theory and notation, specifically in Western music notation.
Evolution of the word: The concept of time signatures in music notation has evolved over time to become a standard way of indicating the meter and rhythm of a musical piece. Different time signatures signify different rhythmic patterns and have been used in various genres of music to convey the intended feel and structure of a composition.