tenor (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

The word "tenor" functions as a noun in Spanish.

Phonetic Transcription

/ˈtenoɾ/

Translation Options into English

1. tenor (in terms of music or singing voice)
2. tenor (in terms of the general meaning or context)
3. tenor (in law)

Meaning and Usage

In general Spanish usage, "tenor" refers to the general meaning or content of something, such as a document or a statement. In the context of music, it refers to a type of voice that is higher than bass but lower than alto and soprano. In legal contexts, "tenor" refers to the content or wording of a legal document or agreement.

The frequency of use can vary; in everyday conversation, the term is more likely to be encountered in relation to music (e.g., choral singing). In legal discourse, it may be used less frequently but carries significant weight when discussing the provisions of legal documents. It is more commonly found in written contexts compared to oral speech due to its formal nature.

Example Sentences

1. El tenor de la carta es claro en cuanto a sus intenciones.

2. The tenor of the letter is clear regarding its intentions.

3. El tenor de esta obra musical es conmovedor y apasionante.

4. The tenor of this musical piece is moving and passionate.

5. El contrato tiene un tenor específico que debe ser respetado.

6. The contract has a specific tenor that must be observed.

Idiomatic Expressions

"Tenor" is not only used in its literal sense but also appears in various idiomatic expressions within the Spanish language, particularly in legal and formal contexts where the intention or meaning of a document is critical.

Example Idiomatic Expressions

1. En el tenor de lo expuesto
   En el tenor de lo expuesto, se deben considerar las necesidades de todos los involucrados.

2. In the tenor of what has been presented, the needs of all involved should be considered.

3. Al tenor de las circunstancias
   Al tenor de las circunstancias actuales, es difícil tomar decisiones acertadas.

4. In light of the current circumstances, it is difficult to make sound decisions.

5. El tenor del discurso
   El tenor del discurso del presidente fue esperanzador.

6. The tenor of the president's speech was hopeful.

7. Tenor de las leyes
   El tenor de las leyes debe ser interpretado por los jueces.

8. The tenor of the laws must be interpreted by the judges.

9. Tenor formal
   El tenor formal del documento no admite interpretaciones.

10. The formal tenor of the document does not allow for interpretations.

11. Tenor imperativo
    El tenor imperativo de la normativa obliga a la acción.

12. The imperative tenor of the regulation compels action.

Etymology

The word "tenor" originates from the Latin word tenor, which means 'that which holds' or 'that which sustains.' In music, it refers to the part of the vocal spectrum that ‘holds’ the melody above the bass line. In legal contexts, its meaning evolved to refer to the wording or content that sustains or conveys a particular message.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

• Musical Context: cantante, voz masculina (male voice)
• Legal Context: contenido, redacción (content, wording)
• General Context: sentido, significado (sense, meaning)

Antonyms

• Musical Context: contralto, bajo (contralto, bass)
• Legal Context: omisión (omission)
• General Context: ambigüedad (ambiguity)

In summary, "tenor" serves as an important term with diverse applications across music, law, and general usage, embodying different yet related meanings in various contexts.