Definition

A situation where there is a lack of harmony or agreement, often resulting in conflict or tension.

Example

The dissonance between their opinions made it difficult to reach a consensus.

Conversation

I was listening to that new album, and it has some really interesting moments of dissonance.

Oh really? I love when music plays with different sounds like that.

Yeah, it creates such an unexpected vibe, almost like a tension that keeps you engaged.

Exactly! That kind of dissonance can make a song really memorable.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Dissonance → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart or away) and "sonare" (meaning to sound). The word describes sounds that are apart or not in harmony with each other.

Memory Tip

Think of sounds that are 'apart' ('dis-') and 'not harmonious' ('sonare') — that's what dissonance means.

Visually Confused Words