dissonant

/'disənənt/

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Sure! Let's break down the word "dissonant" in a way that is easy to understand.

Definition:

"Dissonant" is an adjective that describes something that is not in agreement or harmony. It can refer to sounds that clash or do not sound good together, but it can also be used to describe ideas, opinions, or emotions that are conflicting or disagreeing.

Usage Instructions:

You can use "dissonant" when you want to talk about: 1. Music: When certain notes or chords sound harsh together. 2. Ideas or Opinions: When different thoughts or beliefs are in conflict with each other.

Examples:

1. In Music: "The dissonant chords created a feeling of tension in the song."
2. In Ideas: "His dissonant opinions on the project made it hard for the team to agree."

Advanced Usage:

In more complex discussions, "dissonant" can be used in academic or philosophical contexts. For instance, you might say, "The dissonant theories in psychology highlight the ongoing debate about human behavior."

Word Variants:

• Dissonance (noun): The state of being dissonant. Example: "There was a dissonance between their promises and their actions."
• Dissonantly (adverb): In a dissonant manner. Example: "The two voices sang dissonantly, creating an unsettling effect."

Different Meanings:

While "dissonant" primarily relates to lack of harmony, it can also imply a feeling of conflict or discomfort in social situations or relationships.

Synonyms:

• Clashing
• Discordant
• Inharmonious
• Conflicting

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

While there aren't common idioms or phrasal verbs that include "dissonant," you might hear phrases like "at odds" to describe a similar situation of disagreement.

Summary:

So, "dissonant" describes something that doesn't fit well together, whether that's sounds in music or conflicting ideas. It indicates a lack of harmony or agreement in various contexts.

Academic

Adjective

1. not in accord
   • desires at variance with his duty
   • widely discrepant statements
2. lacking in harmony
3. characterized by musical dissonance; harmonically unresolved

Synonyms

• at variance
• discrepant
• discordant
• disharmonious
• inharmonic
• unresolved