on-key
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: * In tune; accurate in pitch: Describes a musical note or sound that is produced at the correct, intended pitch, without being sharp (too high) or flat (too low). It is the opposite of being off-key.
Usage
The adjective "on-key" is used to describe the quality of a musical sound. It is typically placed before a noun or used after a linking verb like "be," "sound," or "stay." * It modifies nouns related to sound, such as note, tone, singing, or performance. * It is the standard adjective form. The adverbial form is "on key" (two words).
Examples
- The singer's first note was perfectly on-key.
- After practicing for hours, she finally managed to stay on-key throughout the entire song.
- He struggled to produce an on-key note with the unfamiliar instrument.
- The choir's on-key entrance created a beautiful harmonic effect.
Advanced Usage
- "to be on key": This is the common phrasal expression describing the state of being in tune.
- For the audition, it's crucial that you are on key for the entire scale.
- "to sing/play on key": This verb phrase describes the action of performing music accurately in pitch.
- The trumpet player has improved tremendously and can now play on key with the rest of the band.
Variants and Related Words
- On key (adverbial phrase): Used to describe how an action (like singing or playing) is performed.
- She sang on key for the first time today.
- In tune: A more common synonym with the same meaning.
- Pitch-perfect: An adjective meaning extremely accurate in pitch.
Synonyms
- In tune
- True (as in "a true note")
- Pitch-perfect
Antonyms
- Off-key
- Out of tune
- Flat (specifically too low in pitch)
- Sharp (specifically too high in pitch)
Related Phrases
- Hold a note: To sustain a single pitch. This can be done either on-key or off-key.
- She can hold a note on-key for an impressively long time.
- Hit a note: To sing or play a specific pitch. Often used to emphasize accuracy.
- The tenor hit the high note perfectly on key.
Adjective
- in tune; accurate in pitch
- a true note