temps leve: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Specialised (Low/Technical)Technical (Ballet/Dance)
Quick answer
What does “temps leve” mean?
A basic ballet jump that begins and ends on one foot.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A basic ballet jump that begins and ends on one foot.
Literally 'raised time' in French. In ballet, a vertical jump performed from one foot, typically used as a step to connect movements or develop momentum for higher jumps. It is a fundamental element in classical dance.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
There are no substantive differences in meaning or usage between British and American English in this technical context. Both use the same French terminology.
Connotations
The term connotes precision, discipline, and classical training in both varieties.
Frequency
Frequency is identical—zero in general language, standard within ballet/dance communities in both the UK and US.
Grammar
How to Use “temps leve” in a Sentence
PERFORMER + execute + temps levé + (on RIGHT/LEFT FOOT)DANCE + includes + temps levé + (from FIFTH POSITION)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “temps leve” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- She will temps levé to the left.
American English
- He temps levé'd across the floor.
adjective
British English
- A temps levé jump sequence
American English
- The temps levé step
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Used in academic writing about dance history, pedagogy, or technique.
Everyday
Never used in everyday conversation outside the dance world.
Technical
The primary and only context: ballet classes, choreography notes, dance criticism, and pedagogy.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “temps leve”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “temps leve”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “temps leve”
- Pronouncing it as /tɛmps li:v/ (English phonetic).
- Confusing it with 'sauté' (a simple jump from two feet).
- Using it to describe any type of jump.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, but exclusively as a technical loanword in the world of classical ballet and dance. It is not part of general English vocabulary.
A temps levé is a specific ballet technique with a prescribed body position (typically straight legs, pointed toes) and arm placement, initiated from a plié and used within a sequence of dance steps. A 'hop' is a general, non-technical term for a small jump.
In formal academic or dance-specific writing, it is common to italicise foreign terms that are not fully assimilated into English. In everyday dance class notes, italics are often omitted.
A temps levé is traditionally performed on demi-pointe (the ball of the foot). However, a 'temps levé en pointe' is a more advanced variation where the dancer springs and lands on the tips of the toes.
Temps leve is usually technical (ballet/dance) in register.
Temps leve: in British English it is pronounced /ˌtɒ̃ ˈləveɪ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌtɑ̃ ləˈveɪ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “No idioms exist with this technical term.”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'time lifted' (temps = time, levé = raised/lifted). In ballet, you lift your body in time/space with this jump from one foot.
Conceptual Metaphor
A TEMPS LEVÉ IS A SPRINGBOARD (it is a fundamental action that provides the basis for more complex, powerful movements).
Practice
Quiz
In which discipline would you most likely encounter the term 'temps levé'?