B2noun3K

Choir

UK /["/ˈkwaɪə(r)/"]/US /["/ˈkwaɪər/"]/

Definition

a group of people who sing together, for example in church services or public performances

In simple words: A group of people singing together, often in a church.

Examples

  • She sings in the school choir.
  • He joined the church choir when he was eight.
  • to conduct/lead/direct a choir
  • a male voice choir
  • The children's choir will perform some Christmas songs.
  • The choir regularly sings/sing at weddings.
  • She sings in the church choir.
  • a massed choir of local schoolchildren
  • two of the girls in the choir
  • I realize I may be preaching to the choir, but I think he's gorgeous.

Usage notes

Used in contexts related to music and singing. Appropriate for discussions about schools, churches, or performances, but not typically used in casual conversations unless discussing music.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'choir' like 'quiet' singing together—imagine a group softly harmonizing.

Collocations

  • massed
  • 50-strong
  • etc.
  • be in
  • sing in
  • join
  • perform
  • sing
  • practice
  • director
  • member
  • in a/​the choir
  • be preaching to the choir

Synonyms

  • chorus
  • vocal group
  • singing group
  • ensemble

Antonyms

  • solo
  • individual performer
  • soloist
  • lead singer

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'choir' with 'quire', which refers to a collection of pages.
  • Using plural form 'choirs' incorrectly as a possessive.
  • Mispronouncing it as 'kwire' instead of 'kwire'.