A1 adjective Neutral #2,891 most common

chord

/kɔːrd/

A chord is a group of three or more musical notes played together at the same time. It is used to create harmony in songs and is a basic part of playing instruments like the guitar or piano.

Examples

3 of 5
1

The teacher showed me how to play a simple C major chord on the guitar.

The teacher showed me how to play a simple C major chord on the guitar.

2

The final chord of the symphony resonated through the concert hall.

The final chord of the symphony resonated through the concert hall.

3

Just play any chord that sounds good with the melody.

Just play any chord that sounds good with the melody.

Word Family

Noun
chord
Verb
chord
Adverb
chordally
Adjective
chordal
Related
chord-master
💡

Memory Tip

Remember that 'CHord' is for 'CHorus'—both are parts of music.

Quick Quiz

He learned to play his first _____ on the piano today.

Correct!

The correct answer is: chord

Examples

1

The teacher showed me how to play a simple C major chord on the guitar.

everyday

The teacher showed me how to play a simple C major chord on the guitar.

2

The final chord of the symphony resonated through the concert hall.

formal

The final chord of the symphony resonated through the concert hall.

3

Just play any chord that sounds good with the melody.

informal

Just play any chord that sounds good with the melody.

4

A triad is a specific type of chord consisting of three distinct pitches.

academic

A triad is a specific type of chord consisting of three distinct pitches.

5

The new advertisement really struck a chord with our younger customers.

business

The new advertisement really struck a chord with our younger customers.

Word Family

Noun
chord
Verb
chord
Adverb
chordally
Adjective
chordal
Related
chord-master

Common Collocations

play a chord play a chord
major chord major chord
minor chord minor chord
chord progression chord progression
strike a chord strike a chord

Common Phrases

strike a chord

to cause someone to feel a particular emotion

vocal chords

the folds in the throat used to speak (often spelled 'cords')

lost chord

something beautiful or important that has been forgotten

Often Confused With

chord vs cord

A 'cord' is a piece of string or a wire, whereas a 'chord' is a musical term.

chord vs card

A 'card' is a piece of stiff paper, while a 'chord' is a group of notes.

📝

Usage Notes

In music, 'chord' refers to the sound of multiple notes. Figuratively, 'to strike a chord' is used when an idea or message connects emotionally with someone.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners often forget the 'h' in the spelling, writing 'cord' instead of 'chord' when referring to music.

💡

Memory Tip

Remember that 'CHord' is for 'CHorus'—both are parts of music.

📖

Word Origin

Derived from Middle English 'cord', a shortening of 'accord', meaning agreement or harmony.

Grammar Patterns

countable noun plural: chords often used with verbs like 'play', 'hit', or 'strum'
🌍

Cultural Context

Chords are the foundational building blocks of Western pop and classical music theory.

Quick Quiz

He learned to play his first _____ on the piano today.

Correct!

The correct answer is: chord

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