A1noun1K

Dance

UK /["/dɑːns/"]/US /["/dæns/"]/

Definition

a series of movements and steps that are usually performed to music; a particular example of these movements and steps

In simple words: To move your body in a rhythmic way, usually with music.

Examples

  • I love to watch a dance performance at the theater.
  • She took a dance class to improve her skills.
  • At the party, we all joined in to dance together.
  • My favorite dance is the salsa.
  • In the dance, they tell a story through their movements.

Usage notes

Use 'dance' for any type of rhythmic movement, from formal events to casual gatherings. Wouldn't typically use it in a strict business context.

Grammar pattern

dance + object

Memory hint

Think of dancers prancing around to music, 'dance' has a nice rhythm in it!

Collocations

  • little
  • fast
  • lively
  • dance
  • do
  • perform
  • music
  • rhythm
  • performance
  • contemporary
  • modern
  • classical
  • company
  • troupe
  • style
  • a school of dance
  • a style of dance
  • little
  • fast
  • lively
  • dance
  • do
  • perform
  • music
  • rhythm
  • performance
  • barn
  • square
  • school
  • go to
  • hold
  • band
  • at a/​the dance

Synonyms

  • boogie
  • groove
  • wiggle
  • sway
  • twirl

Antonyms

  • sit
  • stand still

Common mistakes

  • Confusing it with 'dancing', which is the continuous action.
  • Using 'dance' intransitively without specifying a dancer or music.
  • Overusing it in contexts where other synonyms may fit better.