Ütemek

Ütemek is a Turkish verb meaning to provide or set a tempo or rhythm, especially in music. The term derives from ütem, which denotes rhythm or tempo, and the verb form is built with the standard Turkish infinitive suffix -mek. In musical contexts, ütemek can describe the act of giving a piece its rhythmic character or determining its pace.

Usage and nuance: In performance practice, ütemek may refer to supplying rhythm to a piece, pacing a passage, or shaping the flow of a performance. The expression “ütem vermek” conveys giving rhythm or tempo to something. In modern Turkish, however, speakers commonly prefer phrases like tempo ayarlamak (to adjust tempo) or ritmi belirlemek (to determine rhythm), and the standalone verb ütemek is comparatively uncommon.

Attestation and register: The verb is more typical of older texts, musical writings, or dialect-influenced usage. In contemporary usage, it tends to appear in specialized or literary contexts rather than everyday speech.

Related terms: Ütem (rhythm, tempo), tempo, ritim, Turkish music theory.

See also: Turkish music theory; Rhythm; Tempo.