A1noun1K

Piano

UK /["/piˈænəʊ/","/piˌænəʊˈfɔːteɪ/"]/US /["/piˈænəʊ/","/piˌænəʊˈfɔːrteɪ/"]/

Definition

a large musical instrument played by pressing the black and white keys on the keyboard. The sound is produced by small hammers hitting the metal strings inside the piano.

In simple words: A large musical instrument with keys that you play by pressing with your fingers.

Examples

  • She plays the piano beautifully at every concert.
  • I bought a new piano for my music lessons.
  • My friend has started learning to play the piano.
  • The piano in the corner of the room is very old.
  • He prefers playing the piano to the guitar.

Usage notes

Use 'piano' when referring to the instrument in general contexts. In formal settings, it's commonly used in music discussions. Avoid using it in slang or informal casual conversations unless discussing music.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Sounds like 'pee-ah-no' — imagine playing a beautiful melody on a big, shiny piano.

Collocations

  • baby grand
  • concert grand
  • grand
  • tune
  • make
  • key
  • lid
  • strings
  • at the piano
  • on the piano

Synonyms

  • keyboard
  • grand piano
  • upright piano
  • electric piano

Antonyms

  • drums
  • flute
  • violin

Common mistakes

  • Confusing it with 'organ' as both are keyboard instruments.
  • Mispronouncing the word with emphasis on the second syllable instead of the first.
  • Omitting the article when talking about 'the piano'.