Semínima

Semínima is a musical note duration used in several Romance-language notation systems to denote the quarter note. It corresponds to the English term quarter note or crotchet. The symbol for a semínima is a filled note head with a straight stem and no flags.

The semínima lasts one quarter of a semibreve (the whole note) and is half the duration of a mínima (the half note). In standard relationships, semibreve equals four semínimas, and mínimas equal two semínimas. In common time (4/4), four semínimas typically fill a measure, and they usually align with the beat when quarter notes are used to mark tempo.

In practical notation, semínimas are combined with rests and can be tied across bar lines to create longer rhythmic values. They are fundamental in shaping rhythms, counting, and meter in many musical styles, from classical to popular music.

The term semínima is found in several Romance-language traditions (such as Portuguese and Italian) where it names the quarter note, while English usage most often uses “quarter note” or “crotchet.” Although the exact historical definitions evolved with mensural notation, in modern Western notation the semínima is the standard symbol and duration for one beat in common time, barring any tempo markings that assign a different beat unit.