tango

/'tæɳgou/

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Sure! Let's break down the word "tango."

Definition

Tango (noun): 1. A type of music that is usually written in a 2/4 time signature, which means it has a strong rhythm that makes you want to dance. 2. A ballroom dance that started in Latin America, especially in Argentina. It is often characterized by close dancing and intricate footwork.

Usage Instructions

• As a noun: You can say "I love listening to tango music," or "They are learning the tango dance."
• As a verb: You might say "We are going to tango tonight at the dance class."

Example Sentences

• Noun: "The tango music played loudly, and everyone wanted to dance."
• Verb: "They tango beautifully together at every dance competition."

Advanced Usage

In more advanced contexts, "tango" can refer to a cultural expression or social event where tango music and dance are featured. For example, "The tango festival attracted dancers from all over the world."

Word Variants

• Tangoed (verb, past tense): "They tangoed at the party last night."
• Tangoing (verb, present participle): "They are tangoing on the dance floor."

Different Meanings

1. In a military context: "Tango" can sometimes refer to a target or enemy (it's used in military slang).
2. In casual conversation: "Tango" can refer to a situation that is complicated or tricky.

Synonyms

• For the dance: Ballroom dance, Latin dance.
• For the music: Tango music can be used interchangeably with milonga, another dance style with similar roots.

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

While there are no common idioms or phrasal verbs specifically involving "tango," the phrase "It takes two to tango" is an idiom meaning that certain situations require the participation of two people. This can be used in contexts where both parties are responsible for something.

Summary

The word "tango" can refer to both a lively dance and the music that accompanies it, originating from Latin America. You can use it as a noun or a verb depending on the context.

Academic

Noun

1. music written in duple time for dancing the tango
2. a ballroom dance of Latin-American origin

Verb

1. dance a tango