forte
Definitions
A thing at which someone excels; a person's strong point
长处，特长，强项
(music) loudly, with strength
（音乐）强奏地，响亮地
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedforte is the 'strong' root borrowed into English twice. The 'strong point / talent' sense came from French fort ('strong'), originally the strong part of a sword blade near the hilt — your forte is where you are strongest. The music sense (loud) came separately from Italian forte ('strong, loud'). Same Latin fortis, two different doors into English.
Root forc still carries 40 more wordsUsage Guide
- Talent sense: traditionally one syllable /fɔːt/ (from French), though /ˈfɔːteɪ/ is now widely accepted — both are heard.
- Music sense: always two syllables /ˈfɔːteɪ/ (from Italian).
- Don't confuse with forty (the number) — different word entirely.
Example Sentences
- 1.
Cooking has never been my forte, so I usually order takeout.
- 2.
Negotiation is her forte; she closes nearly every deal.
- 3.
The passage should be played forte, then fade to a whisper.