Definition

1. Noun:
   • A musical key based on the minor scale: A minor key is a specific tonal center in music that is built upon a minor scale. It is characterized by a particular sequence of intervals, most notably a minor third between the first and third notes of the scale, which gives music in a minor key a sound often described as sad, somber, pensive, or mysterious, in contrast to the brighter sound of a major key.

Usage

• The term "minor key" is used to describe the tonal center or harmonic framework of a piece of music. It is often specified in the title or key signature (e.g., Symphony in D minor). It is a fundamental concept in music theory and composition.

Examples

• Noun:
  • The composer wrote the entire sonata in a haunting minor key.
  • Can you tell if this song is in a major or a minor key?
  • The piece modulates from a bright C major to a melancholic A minor key.

Advanced Usage

• "in a minor key": Used as a prepositional phrase to describe the tonal quality of music or, metaphorically, the mood of a non-musical situation.
  • The film's score, entirely in a minor key, perfectly underscored the tragedy.
  • (Metaphorical) His reflections on the past were written in a minor key, full of regret and nostalgia.

Variants and Related Words

• Minor scale (n): The specific pattern of whole and half steps (e.g., natural, harmonic, melodic minor) upon which a minor key is based.
  • You must practice your minor scales to understand minor keys better.
• Key signature (n): The set of sharps or flats at the beginning of a staff that indicates the key, which can be major or minor.
  • The key signature of three flats could indicate either E-flat major or C minor.

Synonyms

• Tonal center (minor): The home note and chord of a minor piece.
• Minor tonality: A more formal term for the system of relationships between notes in a minor key.

Antonyms

• Major key: A key based on the major scale, typically associated with a brighter, happier sound.

Related Phrases and Idioms

• Strike a minor key: To introduce a sadder, more serious, or melancholic tone into a conversation, story, or piece of writing.
  • The speaker's personal anecdote struck a minor key in the otherwise celebratory event.

Noun

1. a key based on the minor scale