The Just Dance Dictionary: What Dancers Say vs What They Mean

Welcome to the world of dance, where the terms are fancy, the moves are graceful, and the meanings… well, they’re not always what you’d expect. At Just Dance, we know that the language of dance can sometimes sound like it belongs in a foreign dictionary. Don’t worry, though—we’re here to decode it for you with a little twist!

Here’s your light-hearted guide to understanding dance lingo, complete with what it really means when you’re in the studio.

1. Plié (plee-AY)

What it technically means: A bending of the knees while keeping the feet turned out.
What it actually is: A very elegant squat that makes you feel surprisingly graceful while working those leg muscles.

2. Freestyle

What it technically means: Improvised dance without choreography.
What it actually is: Making it up as you go and hoping for the best. Bonus points if you throw in a dramatic spin!

3. Chassé (sha-SAY)

What it technically means: A step where one foot chases the other.
What it actually is: A fancy gallop that makes you feel like a graceful horse.

4. Grand Jeté (grand je-TAY)

What it technically means: A big leap where one leg brushes off the floor, and the other follows in the air.
What it actually is: That move you hope looks stunning but feels like you’re defying gravity for half a second.

5. Spotting

What it technically means: Focusing on a fixed point while turning to avoid dizziness.
What it actually is: The thing you try to remember when spinning but often forget until you’re wobbling like a top.

6. Barre (bar)

What it technically means: A horizontal bar used for ballet exercises.
What it actually is: Your best friend for balance, stretching, and pretending you’re starring in a professional performance.

7. Pas de Bourrée (pah duh boo-RAY)

What it technically means: A sequence of quick, small steps.
What it actually is: The ultimate “filler move” when you need to look busy on stage.

8. Relevé (rel-uh-VAY)

What it technically means: Rising onto the balls of your feet.
What it actually is: The closest you’ll ever feel to being on pointe without the pain.

9. Arabesque (ah-rah-BESK)

What it technically means: A pose where one leg is extended straight behind the body.
What it actually is: Balancing on one leg while desperately hoping the other leg is high enough to impress.

10. Five, Six, Seven, Eight!

What it technically means: A countdown to start dancing.
What it actually is: The moment of truth when you realise whether or not you actually remember the choreography.

Why Learn the Lingo?

At Just Dance, we love helping our dancers (and parents!) navigate the world of dance. While the terms may sound fancy, what really matters is that every movement brings joy, confidence, and progress. And don’t worry—we’ll guide you through every plié, chassé, and freestyle moment with patience and laughter.

Your Dance Journey Starts Here

Ready to join the world of leaps, twirls, and fancy terminology? At Just Dance, we welcome all skill levels to explore the joy of dance in a supportive and inclusive environment. Book a trial class today and let’s turn those “what does that mean?” moments into “look what I can do!” achievements.