What is the meaning of a la seconde in English?

What is the meaning of a la seconde in English?

• A. To the second
• B. Forward
• C. To the fourth behind
• D. Spread or thrown apart

Answer: (A)

In ballet terminology, à la seconde tells you where the working leg goes: it is extended to the side, into the second position. The phrase literally translates to “to the second,” referring to that sideward line of the leg rather than front or back. That’s why this meaning is the best choice—it specifies the leg’s position as the second, which is distinct from forward or behind placements, or from a spread/écarté style. You'll encounter it in steps like battement à la seconde or jeté à la seconde, where the leg reaches out to the side.

In ballet terminology, à la seconde tells you where the working leg goes: it is extended to the side, into the second position. The phrase literally translates to “to the second,” referring to that sideward line of the leg rather than front or back. That’s why this meaning is the best choice—it specifies the leg’s position as the second, which is distinct from forward or behind placements, or from a spread/écarté style. You'll encounter it in steps like battement à la seconde or jeté à la seconde, where the leg reaches out to the side.