Discordant: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when elements do not harmonize, often applied to sounds, opinions, or elements in a group.

• The band's discordant music made it hard to enjoy the concert.
• Their discordant views on politics often led to heated debates.

Typically describes lack of harmony in musical contexts or a clash between beliefs, often carrying a negative tone.

• The dissonant chords made the piece feel unsettling.
• Her dissonant beliefs clashed with the rest of the group's.

Utilized when there is a striking or sharp conflict between two elements, commonly in colors, opinions, or personalities.

• The bright red curtains clashed with the green walls.
• Their strong personalities clashed, leading to frequent arguments.

Applied when something is shockingly different or disrupts the normal flow or harmony, often creating a negative reaction.

• The sudden, loud noise was jarring.
• Her jarring comment left everyone in an awkward silence.

Refers to elements that do not blend well together in a harmonious way, often in sound or design settings.

• The inharmonious notes in the song hurt my ears.
• The inharmonious design of the room made it feel disordered.

Best used when describing sounds or feelings that clash and create a sense of disharmony. This word often has a negative connotation.

• The discordant notes of the orchestra made the audience cringe.
• Their discordant voices during the argument could be heard from outside the house.

Commonly used in more general situations where there is a difference in opinion. It is often less intense than 'conflicting'.

• They were always disagreeing on trivial matters.
• The scientists were disagreeing about the results of the experiment.

Used to describe something that does not fit in or is out of place with the surrounding context, often in a way that seems strange or unsuitable.

• His casual attire was incongruous with the formal setting of the event.
• The new modern building looked incongruous among the historical landmarks.

Used when referring to ideas, opinions, or interests that oppose each other, especially in a manner that causes problems or challenges.

• The conflicting schedules made it difficult to find a time for the meeting.
• Her conflicting emotions about the decision were hard to resolve.

Typically used in formal or technical contexts to describe things that do not match or have inconsistencies, particularly in data or reports.

• The accountant noticed several discrepant figures in the financial report.
• The experiment's outcomes were discrepant with the previous findings.