alto
word
Definition
Alto refers to a singing voice that is lower than a soprano and higher than a tenor, or the person singing in that vocal range. In music, it can also refer to an instrument or a specific part in a composition.
Usage & Nuances
Used mainly in musical contexts. 'Alto' is both a voice type (often female, sometimes male in choirs) and a musical part or instrument (e.g., alto saxophone). Not used to mean 'high' in English (unlike in Spanish or Portuguese); do not confuse with 'high' or 'tall'.
Example Sentences
My sister has an alto voice.
basic
She sings alto in the school choir.
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The alto part starts after the soprano.
basic
I love how rich her alto sounds in that song.
natural
Our choir really needs another good alto for the spring concert.
natural
Do you play the alto sax or the tenor sax?
natural