CEFR C1

plagal

adjective

Meaning

A plagal mode is a type of musical mode that is similar to the authentic mode but has a different range and finalis. In Gregorian chant, the plagal modes are used to create a sense of contrast and variety.

Examples

The choir sang a beautiful plagal melody during the Mass.
The composer used a plagal mode to create a sense of tension in the music.

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plagal (C1)

adjective

Pronunciation: /ˈplɑːɡəl/

Definition

Examples

The choir sang a beautiful plagal melody during the Mass.
The composer used a plagal mode to create a sense of tension in the music.
The musicologist studied the use of plagal modes in medieval chant.

How to Use plagal

plagal mode (noun phrase): a type of musical mode — "The composer used a plagal mode to create a sense of contrast."
plagal cadence (noun phrase): a type of cadence — "The music ended with a plagal cadence."

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