etude
1 synonym for etude, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A short musical piece composed so a performer can drill a specific technique.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
How to use etude
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
piano etude
play an etude
practise an etude
a Chopin etude
A musical term, used mainly by musicians and in discussion of classical music.
Etymology
Borrowed into English around 1837 from the French word étude, meaning study, which itself goes back to the Latin studium. It is a doublet of the English words studio and study, meaning all three ultimately share the same Latin root.
Full origin of etude →Frequently asked questions
What is an etude in music?
It's a short piece written so a musician can work on one specific skill.
Where does the word etude come from?
It was borrowed from the French word étude, meaning study, around 1837, and that French word traces back to the Latin studium.
Is etude just another word for study?
Yes, in music etude is used as a synonym for study, referring to a practice piece.
