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

1. in tune; accurate in pitch
   • a true note