Dissonant: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe sounds that are harsh and lack harmony. Often in musical contexts but can also describe inconsistency in opinions or actions.

• The dissonant notes of the symphony made the audience uneasy.
• Her dissonant views on teamwork made it difficult to collaborate.

Describes sounds that are inharmonious or situations that lack agreement and harmony. Often used in a formal or literary context.

• The discordant sounds from the construction site were disrupting the neighborhood.
• The meeting ended on a discordant note, with many unresolved issues.

Refers to things that do not go well together, such as contrasting colors, styles, or opinions. Can also describe personal conflicts.

• The clashing colors of her outfit drew a lot of attention.
• Their personalities were clashing, making it hard to work together.

Indicates something that is shocking, unpleasant, or out of place. It can be used for noises or situations that suddenly interrupt a sense of harmony.

• The jarring noise of the alarm woke everyone up in the middle of the night.
• The sudden change in tone was jarring to the audience.

This is often used in a musical context to describe sounds that clash or do not harmonize well together. It can also be used metaphorically to describe situations or ideas that conflict.

• The dissonant chords created an unsettling atmosphere.
• Her dissonant opinions caused tension in the group.

This word typically describes something that is out of place or not in harmony with its surroundings. It's often used to point out things that don't fit well together.

• The modern furniture seemed incongruous in the old, rustic cottage.
• His casual attire was incongruous with the formal event.

This word describes a lack of harmony or agreement, often in sound but also in other contexts like relationships or elements of a design. It is used less frequently and might sound more formal.

• The inharmonious sounds of traffic kept her awake at night.
• Their inharmonious teamwork led to a lot of conflicts.

This is used to describe sounds that are harsh and unpleasing to the ear. It can also be used to refer to things that are in conflict or disagreement.

• The discordant sounds of the broken piano filled the room.
• There was a discordant note in their usually harmonious relationship.