long metre: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowTechnical/Literary/Religious
Quick answer
What does “long metre” mean?
A specific poetic metre in hymnody consisting of four lines, each with eight syllables (iambic tetrameter).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A specific poetic metre in hymnody consisting of four lines, each with eight syllables (iambic tetrameter).
In hymn tunes, a standard metrical pattern (8.8.8.8) to which many hymns are set; also refers to the hymn tunes themselves written in this pattern.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning; both use the term identically in hymnody and poetry. Spelling: 'metre' (UK) vs. 'meter' (US) when referring to the poetic measure.
Connotations
Strong association with traditional Christian hymnody in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low frequency in both, confined to specialised contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “long metre” in a Sentence
[hymn/tune/poem] + in + long metre[set/composed] + to + long metreVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “long metre” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The hymn is set to long metre.
American English
- The composer chose to set it in long meter.
adverb
British English
- The poem is structured long metre.
American English
- The verses are written long meter.
adjective
British English
- It's a classic long metre hymn.
American English
- They sang a long meter tune.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Used in poetry analysis, literature, and musicology papers discussing hymnody.
Everyday
Virtually never used in casual conversation.
Technical
Standard term in hymnology, poetry metrics, and liturgical music.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “long metre”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “long metre”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “long metre”
- Confusing it with 'common metre' (8.6.8.6).
- Using it to refer to physical measurement.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Common metre has a pattern of 8.6.8.6 syllables, while long metre is 8.8.8.8.
No, it is exclusively a term for poetic/hymn metre. For physical measurement, use 'metre' or 'meter' alone.
Primarily in hymn books, poetry textbooks, or academic discussions of poetic form.
In UK English, 'metre' is standard for the poetic term. In US English, 'meter' is used, though the UK spelling is often retained in specialised contexts.
A specific poetic metre in hymnody consisting of four lines, each with eight syllables (iambic tetrameter).
Long metre is usually technical/literary/religious in register.
Long metre: in British English it is pronounced /ˌlɒŋ ˈmiːtə/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌlɔːŋ ˈmiːtər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “None”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
LONG METRE: Lines are LONG (8 beats), making hymns strong.
Conceptual Metaphor
POETIC STRUCTURE IS A MEASURED CONTAINER (a fixed form holding words).
Practice
Quiz
What is the syllable pattern of long metre?