A2noun1K

Musician

UK /["/mjuˈzɪʃn/"]/US /["/mjuˈzɪʃn/"]/

Definition

a person who plays a musical instrument or writes music, especially as a job

In simple words: A person who plays music or writes songs.

Examples

  • a jazz/rock/classical musician
  • She has been a professional musician for over 25 years.
  • The competition recognizes talented young musicians.
  • A group of local musicians entertained the guests.
  • The pipes were played by Irish musician, John Burney.
  • Armstrong was still a great jazz musician in the fifties.
  • many pop and rock musicians sing in English rather than their mother tongue.
  • You have to be a very dedicated musician to get to the top.
  • She has toured as a backing musician for Taylor Swift.

Usage notes

Use 'musician' in both formal and informal settings. It's appropriate when talking about people in the music industry, but avoid it in very casual slang conversations.

Grammar pattern

musician + is/are + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'music' + 'ian' — a person who creates or plays music.

Collocations

  • accomplished
  • brilliant
  • excellent
  • perform (something)
  • play (something)
  • sing (something)

Synonyms

  • artist
  • performer
  • composer
  • band member
  • singer

Antonyms

  • non-musician
  • amateur

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'musician' with 'musical' (the adjective).
  • Using 'musician' without a clear context or description.
  • Incorrectly assuming 'musician' only refers to singers.