Are you confused about the difference between repertoire and repertory? You’re not alone. Many people use these words interchangeably, but they actually have distinct meanings.
Let’s clarify which of the two is the proper word. The answer is that both are technically correct, but they are used in different contexts. Repertoire is more commonly used in music and performing arts, while repertory is used in the context of theater.
So what do these words mean? Repertoire refers to the collection of works or pieces that a performer or group is prepared to perform. It can also refer to the skills or abilities that a person possesses. Repertory, on the other hand, refers to a company or group of performers who regularly perform a series of works or pieces. It can also refer to the collection of works that a theater company is prepared to perform.
Now that we’ve established the definitions of these words, let’s dive deeper into their usage and explore some examples.
Define Repertoire
Repertoire refers to the collection of works or skills that an individual or group is capable of performing or producing. It is often used in the context of music, dance, theater, and other performing arts to describe the range of pieces or routines that a performer or company has mastered and can present to an audience.
For example, a musician’s repertoire may include a variety of pieces from different genres and time periods, while a dance company’s repertoire may consist of a combination of classical and contemporary works.
Define Repertory
Repertory, on the other hand, refers to the body of works that a particular company, group, or institution has available to perform or produce. It is often used in the context of theater and opera to describe the plays or productions that a company has in its current season or rotation.
For example, a repertory theater company may perform a different play each night of the week, rotating through a selection of works from their overall repertoire. Similarly, an opera company may have a specific repertory of operas that they perform regularly throughout the year.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
When it comes to language, proper usage of words is crucial. The words ‘repertoire’ and ‘repertory’ are often confused for each other, but they have distinct meanings. In this section, we will explore how to use these words correctly in a sentence.
How To Use ‘Repertoire’ In A Sentence
The word ‘repertoire’ refers to the range of skills, abilities, or knowledge that a person possesses or a group of people or performers have. Here are some examples of how to use ‘repertoire’ in a sentence:
- As a chef, it is important to have a vast repertoire of recipes to cater to a variety of tastes.
- The band’s repertoire includes classic rock songs from the 70s and 80s.
- She impressed the interviewers with her repertoire of programming languages.
As you can see from these examples, ‘repertoire’ is used to refer to a collection or range of things, whether it be skills, knowledge, or a collection of songs or performances.
How To Use ‘Repertory’ In A Sentence
The word ‘repertory’ refers to a collection of theatrical performances, or a theater company that performs a variety of plays. Here are some examples of how to use ‘repertory’ in a sentence:
- The local repertory theater is known for its diverse range of performances.
- The actors in the repertory company are all highly trained and skilled.
- The play was part of the theater’s repertory for the season.
As you can see from these examples, ‘repertory’ is used to refer specifically to a collection of theatrical performances or a company that performs such a collection.
By understanding the differences between ‘repertoire’ and ‘repertory’, you can use these words correctly in your writing and speaking, and avoid confusion.
More Examples Of Repertoire & Repertory Used In Sentences
In order to better understand the difference between the two words, let’s take a look at some examples of how they are used in sentences.
Examples Of Using Repertoire In A Sentence
- Her repertoire of songs includes both classic and modern hits.
- The chef’s repertoire of dishes is known for its unique and flavorful combinations.
- As an actor, it’s important to have a wide repertoire of skills and techniques.
- The dance company’s repertoire includes both contemporary and traditional pieces.
- My grandfather’s repertoire of stories about his youth always kept us entertained.
- The artist’s repertoire of styles ranges from realistic to abstract.
- As a writer, it’s important to have a diverse repertoire of genres and formats.
- The musician’s repertoire of instruments includes the guitar, piano, and drums.
- The comedian’s repertoire of jokes always had the audience in stitches.
- The magician’s repertoire of tricks left the audience amazed and bewildered.
Examples Of Using Repertory In A Sentence
- The theater company’s repertory of plays includes both classics and new works.
- The orchestra’s repertory of pieces ranges from Baroque to contemporary.
- The ballet company’s repertory of performances includes both full-length productions and shorter pieces.
- The opera company’s repertory of operas includes works from both the Italian and German traditions.
- The Shakespearean actor’s repertory of plays includes all of the Bard’s major works.
- The improv troupe’s repertory of skits and scenes always kept the audience guessing.
- The circus’s repertory of acts included acrobats, clowns, and animal performers.
- The mime’s repertory of gestures and expressions was both subtle and powerful.
- The puppeteer’s repertory of characters ranged from whimsical to eerie.
- The magician’s repertory of illusions included both classic and original tricks.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using the words “repertoire” and “repertory,” people often make the mistake of using them interchangeably. However, these two words have distinct meanings and should be used appropriately to avoid confusion.
Using “Repertoire” Instead Of “Repertory”
One common mistake is using “repertoire” instead of “repertory.” “Repertoire” refers to the collection of works that a performer or artist is prepared to present, while “repertory” refers to the collection of works that a theater company or dance troupe is prepared to perform.
For example, if someone says, “The theater company has a vast repertoire of plays,” it would be incorrect as it should be “The theater company has a vast repertory of plays.”
Using “Repertory” Instead Of “Repertoire”
On the other hand, using “repertory” instead of “repertoire” is also a common mistake. As mentioned earlier, “repertory” refers to the collection of works that a theater company or dance troupe is prepared to perform. If someone says, “The musician has a diverse repertory of songs,” it would be incorrect as it should be “The musician has a diverse repertoire of songs.”
Tips To Avoid Mistakes
To avoid making these mistakes in the future, it is essential to understand the difference between “repertoire” and “repertory.” Here are some tips:
- Remember that “repertoire” refers to the collection of works that a performer or artist is prepared to present.
- Remember that “repertory” refers to the collection of works that a theater company or dance troupe is prepared to perform.
- When in doubt, consult a dictionary or style guide to ensure that you are using the correct word.
Context Matters
When it comes to choosing between the words “repertoire” and “repertory,” context matters. Both words have similar meanings, but they are used differently depending on the situation. Understanding the nuances of each word can help you use them correctly and effectively.
Repertoire
The word “repertoire” refers to a collection of skills, abilities, or performances that a person or group is capable of. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as music, theater, or sports. For example:
- A musician’s repertoire might include a variety of songs or pieces they can perform.
- A theater company’s repertoire might include a range of plays or productions they have staged.
- A sports team’s repertoire might include a variety of strategies or techniques they can use during a game.
In each of these cases, “repertoire” refers to the range of options available to the person or group in question. It implies a level of flexibility and adaptability.
Repertory
The word “repertory,” on the other hand, refers specifically to a collection of performances or productions that a theater company or performing arts group is capable of staging. It is a more narrow and specific term than “repertoire.” For example:
- A theater company’s repertory might include a range of plays they have staged or plan to stage in the future.
- A ballet company’s repertory might include a variety of dance productions they can perform.
- A symphony orchestra’s repertory might include a range of classical compositions they have performed or plan to perform in the future.
In each of these cases, “repertory” refers to the specific set of performances or productions that the group is capable of staging. It implies a level of specialization and expertise.
Understanding the differences between “repertoire” and “repertory” can help you choose the right word for the context in which you are writing or speaking. Whether you are talking about a musician’s range of songs or a theater company’s upcoming productions, choosing the right word can help you communicate your message clearly and effectively.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the rules for using repertoire and repertory are generally straightforward, there are a few exceptions where they may not apply. Here are some examples:
1. Music
In music, the term “repertoire” is often used to refer to a collection of songs or pieces that a musician or group is able to perform. However, “repertory” can also be used in this context, particularly in reference to a specific type of performance tradition.
For example, a theater company may have a repertory of plays that they perform regularly, while a classical musician may have a repertoire of pieces that they are able to play. However, a jazz musician may refer to their “repertory” of standards, while a folk musician may talk about their “repertoire” of traditional songs.
2. Medicine
In medicine, the term “repertoire” is sometimes used to refer to the range of diseases or conditions that a particular treatment or medication is effective against. However, “repertory” can also be used in this context, particularly in reference to a database or collection of medical knowledge.
For example, a doctor may talk about a particular drug’s “repertoire” of uses, while a medical researcher may refer to a “repertory” of clinical trials that have been conducted on a particular treatment.
3. Dance
In dance, the term “repertoire” is often used to refer to a collection of dances that a company or individual is able to perform. However, “repertory” can also be used in this context, particularly in reference to a specific type of performance tradition or style.
For example, a ballet company may have a repertory of classic works that they perform regularly, while a modern dance company may have a repertoire of more experimental pieces. However, a tap dancer may refer to their “repertory” of steps, while a ballroom dancer may talk about their “repertoire” of routines.
4. Linguistics
In linguistics, the terms “repertoire” and “repertory” are sometimes used interchangeably to refer to the range of language varieties or styles that an individual or community is able to use. However, there are also specific uses for each term.
For example, “repertoire” may be used to refer to the range of linguistic features that an individual is able to use, while “repertory” may be used to refer to the range of language varieties that are used in a particular community or region.
5. Theatre
In theatre, the term “repertory” is often used to refer to a company or group of actors who perform a variety of plays or productions over a period of time. However, “repertoire” can also be used in this context, particularly in reference to the range of plays or productions that a company is able to perform.
For example, a Shakespearean repertory company may have a repertoire of classic works by the playwright, while a modern theatre company may have a repertory of more contemporary plays.
Practice Exercises
Improving your understanding and use of repertoire and repertory requires practice. Here are some exercises to help you:
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank
Choose the correct word to fill in the blank in each sentence:
| Sentence | Word Choices |
|---|---|
| 1. The ballet company has a vast ______ of classical and contemporary works. | repertory / repertoire |
| 2. The pianist’s _______ includes works by Bach, Beethoven, and Brahms. | repertoire / repertory |
| 3. The theater group is known for its extensive ______ of Shakespearean plays. | repertory / repertoire |
| 4. The opera singer has a wide ______ of arias and art songs in her repertoire. | repertoire / repertory |
Answer key: 1. repertory, 2. repertoire, 3. repertory, 4. repertoire
Exercise 2: Sentence Completion
Complete each sentence with the correct form of repertoire or repertory:
- The theater company’s _______ includes both classic and contemporary plays.
- The pianist’s _______ of Chopin’s works is impressive.
- The dance troupe’s _______ consists of traditional and modern pieces.
- The orchestra’s _______ of Beethoven’s symphonies is widely acclaimed.
Answer key: 1. repertory, 2. repertoire, 3. repertory, 4. repertoire
Exercise 3: Writing Practice
Write a paragraph using both repertoire and repertory correctly:
Example: The theater company’s repertory includes classic plays by Shakespeare, while their repertoire consists of contemporary works by emerging playwrights.
Answer key: Varies
Conclusion
After exploring the differences between repertoire and repertory, it is clear that these two words have distinct meanings and should not be used interchangeably. Repertoire refers to a collection of skills, abilities, or pieces of art that an individual or group is able to perform or produce. On the other hand, repertory refers to a company or organization that produces a series of performances or shows.
It is important to use these words correctly in order to communicate effectively and avoid confusion. By understanding the nuances of language use, we can improve our writing and speaking skills.
Key Takeaways
- Repertoire refers to a collection of skills, abilities, or pieces of art that an individual or group is able to perform or produce.
- Repertory refers to a company or organization that produces a series of performances or shows.
- It is important to use these words correctly in order to communicate effectively and avoid confusion.
By expanding our vocabulary and knowledge of grammar, we can become better communicators and enhance our professional and personal lives. Keep learning and exploring the intricacies of language use to improve your writing and speaking skills.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.