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A tempo marking indicating a slow and graceful movement. In contemporary dance, adagio sections are characterized by fluid, expansive movements that often require control and sustained, elongated motions.

A common count pattern used to structure dance movements. Dancers use the 8 beats to synchronize steps and phrases. In contemporary dance, movements are often choreographed in 8-count blocks to create a cohesive flow.

A term used to describe fast, dynamic movement, usually applied to quick footwork and lively actions in dance. In contemporary, this could translate to fast floor work or swift direction changes.

A rhythmic pattern of three steps taken within two beats of music. In contemporary dance, triplets are used to convey fluidity and are executed with a plie on the first step and elevation on the second and third.

A disturbance or interruption of the regular flow of rhythm, often by stressing the weak beat. In contemporary dance, syncopation is used to add interest and complexity to movement sequences, promoting a sense of unpredictability.

A choreographic device where the same movement sequence is performed by different dancers successively with a delay. In contemporary dance, the canon creates visual complexity and can articulate the rhythm of the music or theme.

The first beat of a measure, often the strongest. In contemporary dance, movements starting on the downbeat might initiate on a strong accent or jump, giving a sense of grounding or emphasis to the movement.

A term describing movement that is smooth and connected with no sharp breaks. In contemporary dance, legato passages are marked by continuous flow and seamless transitions between poses and steps.

A technique where one part of the body is moved independently from the rest. In contemporary dance, isolations are often used to draw attention to a specific body part or to add layers to the choreography.