Which term is used to describe a tempo that broadens and slows gradually?

• A. Andantino
• B. Alla
• C. Animato
• D. Allargando

Answer: (D)

Allargando indicates a tempo that broadens and slows gradually, giving the music an expansive, swelling feel as the pulse stretches out. This marking tells you to let the tempo drift outward, not just dip a little in speed, so the phrases gain width and the texture broadens. It’s often used at a climactic or concluding moment to create a grand, lingering effect.

Compared with other simple tempo ideas, one that means slightly faster than a walking pace would feel brisker and more restrained, not broad. Animato asks for lively energy, not a slowing, so it yields a bright, animated character rather than a broad, slow one. And while phrases can end with a gradual slow, the standalone term allargando specifically signals widening of the tempo, not just a straightforward ritardando or rallentando.