ensemble

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "ensemble" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to a group of people or things working together as a team, or to refer to a coordinated outfit. For example: "The actors gave a wonderful performance as an ensemble."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

New Moves comprises four major programmes each year, each featuring a collaboration with an outstanding artist or ensemble operating in a different artistic sphere and/or musical genre, making use of an underpinning theme to thread together eclectic music and ignite dialogue across art forms.

The Guardian - Music

The results of what Mr Gatti gave and demanded were palpable in the orchestra's extraordinary Mahler cycle two years ago in which bold interpretative extremes produced thrilling performances.That sort of daring, and the confidence to communicate it to both ensemble and audience, can be the special gift of a young conductor, and the current musical scene could use such bracing rejuvenation.

The Economist

But it's less replicated over the pond, where sitcoms tend to be ensemble jobs.

The Guardian - Opinion

But next to the steady diet of Jersey shenanigans and rampaging teen moms MTV feeds its constituency, the Skins ensemble can't help but seem a little smaller than life.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Brian Friel's adaptation of Turgenev's novel offered some of the best ensemble acting of the year in Lyndsey Turner's production.

The Guardian

Starring Robert Downey Jr as Iron Man, Chris Hemsworth as Thor, Mark Ruffalo as the Hulk, Chris Evans as Captain America and Scarlett Johansson as the Black Widow, Age of Ultron sets the titular superhero ensemble against titular intelligent robot villain Ultron, voiced by James Spader.

The Guardian - Film

It is not the first time Blanchett has starred in a Highsmith adaptation – she was part of the ensemble cast for Anthony Minghella's 1999 thriller, The Talented Mr Ripley.

The Guardian - Film

Bolt said the requirement amounted to the "subjugation of women" and said the ensemble looked "ridiculous" on the foreign minister, who was in Iran for the first high-level meeting between Canberra and Tehran in 12 years.

The Guardian

I know who I am and what my style raison d'être is, and if that involves a headache-inducing, print-filled, colourful ensemble with three or four bags shoved on the arms – then so be it.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This gave actors, especially the younger ones, time to develop considerable depth and the company a sense of family, which shows in the ensemble of the finished movie.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The Jyske Ensemble, based in Viborg on the Jutland peninsula, was one of six "basis ensembles" in Denmark set up to work alongside the larger symphony orchestras, and help bring classical music to the regions while supporting music education in schools.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about a musical or theatrical group, use "ensemble" to emphasize the collaborative and coordinated nature of their performance.

Common error

Avoid using "ensemble" solely to describe a random assortment of items; ensure there's a deliberate coordination or intended unity among the components.

Linguistic Context

The word "ensemble" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a group of things or people that constitute a coordinated whole. It can also function as a verb, meaning to perform in a musical ensemble. Examples provided by Ludwig illustrate the various uses and confirms its validity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ensemble" is a versatile term primarily used as a noun to describe a coordinated group or outfit, often in the context of performing arts or fashion. According to Ludwig, the word is grammatically correct and sees frequent usage across various reliable sources. While typically neutral in register, its French origin lends it a touch of sophistication. Consider alternatives like "group of performers" or "performing company" to provide a similar semantic meaning. Remember to use "ensemble" when referring to intentional coordinations rather than just any random collection to avoid misinterpretations. The high source quality and expert rating reinforce the reliable and proper usage of the word."

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

group of performers

Focuses specifically on the performers involved, highlighting their collective role.

performing company

Emphasizes the organizational aspect of a group of performers.

musical group

Highlights the musical nature of the ensemble.

team

Implies a collaborative effort towards a common goal.

collection

Focuses on the assembled nature of the items or people.

combination

Highlights the act of bringing different elements together.

set

Refers to a group of items intended to be used together.

outfit

Specifically refers to a coordinated set of clothing.

gathering

Emphasizes the act of people coming together.

assembly

Focuses on the process of putting things together.

FAQs

How can I use "ensemble" in a sentence?

You can use "ensemble" to describe a group of musicians, actors, or dancers who perform together. For example, "The theatrical ensemble delivered a captivating performance".

What's the difference between "ensemble" and "orchestra"?

"Ensemble" is a broader term referring to any group of performers, while "orchestra" specifically refers to a large instrumental ensemble, usually with stringed instruments.

What can I say instead of "ensemble" when referring to clothing?

You can use "outfit", "set", or "combination" depending on the context.

Is it correct to use "ensemble" to describe a group of unrelated objects?

While "ensemble" implies a coordinated whole, ensure the objects have some intended connection or purpose to justify its use. Otherwise, consider a term like "collection" or "assortment".