cadence - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cadence Word Meanings
- the rhythmic flow of a sequence of sounds or words
- a modulation or inflection of the voice
- the way in which something progresses or develops
cadence Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cadence Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkeɪ.dəns/
US
/ˈkeɪ.dəns/
cadence Word Etymology
(a) cad- (to fall) + -ence (state or quality) - (b) Originates from Latin 'cadentia', meaning 'a falling' through Old French to English - (c) Imagine a wave gently falling back into the sea; each ebb and flow creates a delicate rhythm, akin to the cadence of life itself.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Cadence refers to the pattern of sounds in speech or music that creates a sense of rhythm and flow. It can describe how a line of poetry or a sentence rises and falls in tempo, the way a speaker modulates their pitch and pace, or the overall rate at which a process unfolds. In music, cadence signals the end of a phrase or section, while in everyday language it might convey emphasis, mood, or certainty. A winding story might have a slow, lyrical cadence, whereas a brisk news report favors a tight, quick cadence. Understanding cadence helps you listen more closely and deliver language with appropriate rhythm and emphasis.
Usage Reminders
- Think rhythm, not speed.
- Notice pitch and pauses.
- Match cadence to meaning, not just grammar.
- Record and compare with native speech.
- Read aloud passages with varied sentence lengths.
- Shadow short talks to imitate natural cadence.
Common Misconceptions
- Cadence is not the same as speed or loudness.
- Cadence only matters in poetry or music.
- Cadence always ends in a clear stop or pause.
- Cadence is only about the final word of a sentence.
- Cadence is a fixed feature of speaking that never changes with context.
Thinking Differences
English cadence often blends with stress patterns and natural pauses; learners may over-rush at sentence endings or ignore the rise and fall that gives rhythm.
Learning Tips
- Listen to native speech to hear natural cadence.
- Practice with sentences of varying length.
- Record yourself and compare with a native speaker.
- Use punctuation to guide pauses and emphasis.
- Shadow short passages to imitate rhythm.
- Read aloud with a metronome or natural beat.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'cadence' mean?
A.A large water body
B.A type of advanced cooking technique
C.A flow of rhythm in music or speech
D.A destructive weather pattern
Step 2: Usage
Choose the correct usage of the word 'cadence' in a sentence.
A.The poem had a lovely cadence to it.
B.She cooked a delicious meal with perfect cadence.
C.He drove the car in a slow cadence through the city.
D.The baby's heartbeat matched the cadence of the song.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is the closest synonym to 'cadence'?
A.Tempo
B.Silence
C.Length
D.Density
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'cadence'?
A.Disorder
B.Harmony
C.Rhythm
D.Flow
Step 5: Mastery
Think of a real-life scenario where 'cadence' might apply.
A.The cat always jumps onto the windowsill in the afternoon.
B.They organized a meeting to discuss finances for next year.
C.The rhythm of the drummer set the mood for the band.
D.In the park, the children played while their parents chatted.
Related Listening
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