tenor

[/ˈtenər/]
nounmasculinepl: tenors
tenor
1. A male singing voice with a range between baritone and alto, or a singer with this voice type
The tenor sang beautifully in the opera performance.
O tenor cantou lindamente na apresentação de ópera.
2. The general character, nature, or prevailing tone of something
The tenor of the meeting was optimistic and productive.
O tom da reunião foi otimista e produtivo.
3. The continuance or course of something; the general tendency or drift
The tenor of his argument was consistent throughout the speech.
O caráter do seu argumento foi consistente ao longo do discurso.
4. In legal or financial contexts, the exact terms or conditions of a document
The tenor of the contract specifies payment within 30 days.
Os termos do contrato especificam o pagamento em 30 dias.
In Brazil and Portugal, 'tenor' is commonly used in both musical and formal contexts. In opera and classical music traditions, which are valued in both cultures, tenor singers often occupy prominent roles. The word is also used metaphorically in business and academic settings to describe the general character or atmosphere of situations, similar to English usage. The term is essentially identical across English and Portuguese musical terminology.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
charactertonenaturequalityessencedrifttrendspirit
Antonyms / Antônimos
basscontralto

Regional Variations

General Brazilian Portuguese
tenor
Standard term used for both the voice type and general character/tone meaning
Portugal
tenor
Same usage as Brazilian Portuguese; also used in formal and musical contexts
Musical contexts (Brazil and Portugal)
tenor
Identical to English; part of standard musical terminology across Portuguese-speaking countries

Related Words

sopranobaritonealtovocalsingingmelodyharmony

Related Idioms & Phrases

keep tenor (meaning: maintain a consistent course or character)
tenor of the times (meaning: the prevailing mood or characteristics of a particular period)
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