noun

tempo

/ˈtɛmpoʊ/ · say it: TEM·poh

the speed at which music is played

In Arts & Culture

In more detail

1. (noun) the speed at which music is played

2. (noun) the speed or rate at which something happens

Examples

1. The conductor slowed the tempo of the symphony.
2. The tempo of change in technology has accelerated over the past decade.

How to use tempo

Tempo is used both in music to specify how fast a piece should be played and more generally to describe the pace or rhythm of any activity or process. In musical contexts, it often appears with Italian markings (allegro, andante) or beats per minute. In everyday usage, it refers to the speed at which events unfold or life progresses, often implying a sense of rhythm or flow rather than just bare speed.

Common phrases

tempo of life
pick up tempo
brisk tempo
slow tempo
set the tempo
tempo marking

Synonyms

pace · speed · rate · rhythm · velocity

Word family

temporal · temporarily · temporize · extemporaneous

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse tempo with 'time signature' in music, or overuse it in formal writing when simpler words like 'pace' or 'speed' would be more appropriate.

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