Which term means 'Sustained'?

Which term means 'Sustained'?

• A. Chassé
• B. Devant
• C. Derrière
• D. Soutenu

Answer: (D)

Sustained describes a movement quality that is smooth, continuous, and held, with an even, controlled tempo that keeps the line uninterrupted. Soutenu literally means sustained, so in Cecchetti usage it signals a movement or phrase that is drawn out with stability and connected weight transfer, giving a calm, uninterrupted flow from start to finish. This contrasts with quick or snapping actions and with steps that emphasize direction or placement rather than duration. Chassé is a gliding step that chases the other foot, while devant and derrière simply indicate front or back position, not the sustained quality of the movement.

Sustained describes a movement quality that is smooth, continuous, and held, with an even, controlled tempo that keeps the line uninterrupted. Soutenu literally means sustained, so in Cecchetti usage it signals a movement or phrase that is drawn out with stability and connected weight transfer, giving a calm, uninterrupted flow from start to finish. This contrasts with quick or snapping actions and with steps that emphasize direction or placement rather than duration. Chassé is a gliding step that chases the other foot, while devant and derrière simply indicate front or back position, not the sustained quality of the movement.