ballet bends crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "ballet bends crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PLIE: A fundamental ballet movement where a dancer bends the knees, essential for flexibility, balance, and cushioning jumps.
More About "ballet bends crossword clue"
The term "ballet bends" in a crossword clue almost universally points to one of the most fundamental movements in classical ballet: the plié. Derived from the French word meaning "to bend," the plié is a foundational exercise performed by dancers of all levels, from beginners to professionals. It's not just a warm-up; it's integral to nearly every ballet step, providing the necessary elasticity and spring for jumps, turns, and soft landings.
There are two primary types of pliés: the demi-plié and the grand plié. The demi-plié involves a half-bend of the knees, keeping the heels firmly on the floor, and is crucial for developing ankle flexibility and the 'spring' needed for leaps. The grand plié, on the other hand, is a full bend where the knees are bent as far as possible, with the heels typically lifting off the floor (except in second position). Both variations are vital for building leg strength, improving balance, and ensuring smooth transitions between movements.
Understanding terms like 'plié' is key for crossword enthusiasts, as ballet vocabulary, often French in origin, frequently appears in puzzles. Recognizing these specific terms can quickly unlock challenging clues and help complete your grid. The plié is a testament to ballet's blend of strength, grace, and precision, and its importance in the dance form makes it a common and fitting subject for crossword clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look for Specific Terminology: Clues related to specific fields like ballet, music, or science often use very precise terms. If a clue points to a niche, think about its unique vocabulary.
- Consider Foreign Words: Ballet, in particular, heavily uses French terms. If a clue has a foreign-sounding context, a foreign word might be the answer.
- Count Letters Carefully: Always double-check the number of letters required by the grid. This can immediately eliminate many possibilities.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Don't try to solve a difficult clue in isolation. Once you solve intersecting clues, the letters they provide can often make the tricky clue much clearer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "plié" mean in ballet?
Plié is a French term meaning "bent" or "bending." In ballet, it refers to the bending of the knees, a foundational movement used in almost every exercise and step.
Why are pliés important in ballet?
Pliés are crucial for developing flexibility in the ankles, knees, and hips, strengthening leg muscles, improving balance, and acting as a shock absorber for jumps and landings, protecting the dancer's joints.
Are there different types of pliés?
Yes, the two main types are demi-plié (a half bend where the heels remain on the floor) and grand plié (a full bend where the heels usually lift off the floor, except in second position).