01
das Trio
trio
A group of three people who do something together, especially in the field of music or art.
example
Das Jazz-Trio bestand aus Klavier, Bass und Schlagzeug.
The jazz trio consisted of piano, bass, and drums.
das Trio
trio
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Meanings
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Usage tips
Number-based word family
'Trio' comes from the Latin word for 'three'. It belongs to an international word family for groups named after numbers, such as 'Duo' (duo/two), 'Quartett' (quartet/four), or 'Quintett' (quintet/five).
EXAMPLE
Aus dem Duo wurde ein Trio, als ein Bassist dazukam.
The duo became a trio when a bassist joined.
Typical collocations
As a group of three people, 'Trio' is often used in a musical context, e.g. 'Klaviertrio' (piano trio), 'Jazz-Trio' (jazz trio). But it can also refer to any other group of three people who belong closely together.
EXAMPLE
Das Trio trat jeden Freitagabend in der kleinen Bar auf.
The trio performed every Friday evening in the small bar.
Context clue
This meaning refers to the piece of music itself, not to the musicians. You can recognize it because the name of a composer is often mentioned or because it appears in the context of compositions and concert programs.
EXAMPLE
Das Orchester spielte ein wunderschönes Trio von Schubert.
The orchestra played a beautiful trio by Schubert.
Compare with
Trio vs Duo
duo
'Duo' and 'Trio' are easy to confuse because both can describe groups or pieces of music. But the difference is simple: a 'Duo' consists of two people or is for two voices or instruments. A 'Trio' consists of three people or is for three voices or instruments. Both words are especially typical in music and art. The practical guide is: 'duo' means two, 'trio' means three.
Trio
Am Abend spricht der Moderator mit dem Trio über das neue Album.
In the evening, the host talks with the trio about the new album.
Duo
Spielt das Duo heute wieder zusammen auf dem Stadtfest?
Is the duo performing together again at the town festival today?
In real life
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