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subordinate motif

[/səˈbɔːrdənət ˈmoʊtiːf/]
nounpl: subordinate motifs
motivo subordinado
1. A secondary or supporting thematic element in music, literature, or visual art that complements or contrasts with the primary motif
In the symphony, the subordinate motif in the violas provided harmonic support to the main melody.
Na sinfonia, o motivo subordinado nas violas forneceu suporte harmônico à melodia principal.
2. A recurring pattern or idea of lesser prominence that develops or reinforces the main theme
The subordinate motif of loneliness echoed throughout the novel without overshadowing the central narrative.
O motivo subordinado da solidão ecoou ao longo do romance sem ofuscar a narrativa central.
Synonyms
secondary motifsupporting themeauxiliary motifminor theme
Antonyms
primary motifmain themeprincipal motif

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
motivo subordinado
Standard term used in music theory and literary analysis
Portugal
motivo secundário
Alternative term more commonly used in Portuguese academic contexts

Related Idioms & Phrases

play a supporting role
take a back seat to
complement the main theme
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