Harmonize: meaning, definitions and examples

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harmonize

[ˈhɑːməˌnaɪz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

music

To harmonize means to play or sing different notes that sound good together. It involves creating a pleasing combination of musical tones that complement each other.

Synonyms

blend, combine, mesh.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
harmonize	Typically used when talking about music or ideas that work well together to create a pleasing or effective result. The choir members worked hard to harmonize their voices for the concert. The policy aims to harmonize the various interests of the stakeholders involved.
blend	Often used when mixing substances, styles, or flavors smoothly together so that the components are indistinguishable. She used a blender to blend the fruits for the smoothie. The artist skillfully blended colors to create a stunning painting.
mesh	Commonly used when talking about elements, people, or systems that fit or work well together, particularly in teamwork or mechanical settings. Their personalities mesh well, making them great business partners. The gears in the clock need to mesh perfectly to keep accurate time.
combine	Usually used when two or more distinct elements are brought together to form a single unit or mixture. We need to combine our efforts to complete the project on time. She combined flour, sugar, and eggs to make the cake batter.

Examples of usage

The choir members harmonized beautifully during the performance.
She has a natural talent for harmonizing with any melody.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

teamwork

To harmonize can also mean to bring different elements or people into agreement or unity. It involves finding a way for diverse individuals or ideas to work together effectively.

Synonyms

align, coordinate, unify.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
harmonize	Typically used when talking about making things work together in a peaceful and successful way, often in music, relationships, or systems. The team worked to harmonize their efforts with the new company strategy. The choir needs to harmonize their voices for the concert.
coordinate	Used when talking about organizing activities or people to work together efficiently and effectively, often in event planning or team projects. She will coordinate the logistics for the conference. We need to coordinate our schedules to meet the deadline.
align	Often used in business, politics, or personal goals when referring to making sure different elements follow the same direction or purpose. The company's objectives need to align with consumer needs. We need to align our interests before moving forward with the project.
unify	Usually refers to bringing different parts or people together to form a single entity, often seen in social, political, or organizational contexts. The leader's mission was to unify the divided nation. The company aims to unify its various brands under one logo.

Examples of usage

The team needed to harmonize their strategies for the project to succeed.
It is important for the group to harmonize their efforts towards a common goal.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Greek word 'harmonia', meaning agreement or concord.
In music, harmonization involves combining different notes that complement each other, originating in ancient musical practices.
The term began to appear in English around the 15th century, linking to both music and the balance of elements.

Music

In music, harmonizing can create rich, layered sounds, commonly found in choral arrangements and popular songs.
Many musical genres, including jazz, utilize harmony to enhance emotional expression.
The study of harmony is essential for composers and musicians, helping them create richer emotional experiences.

Cultural Impact

In various cultures, harmonizing is a key element in traditional music styles, such as folk and gospel, reflecting community bonds.
Festivals often feature groups that harmonize, reinforcing social connections and cultural heritage.
Harmony in performance art is viewed as a symbol of unity and cooperation within communities.

Psychology

Harmonizing can also refer to personal experiences where individuals or groups resolve tension, leading to emotional balance.
Studies suggest that participating in group harmonizing activities can foster feelings of belonging and boost mood.
Psychologists often emphasize the importance of harmonizing thoughts and emotions for mental well-being.

Literature

Authors often use the concept of harmony to explore themes of balance and unity in relationships and societies.
In poetry, harmonious language can evoke feelings of peace and interconnectedness among themes or characters.
The idea of harmonizing not only applies to sound but also to narrative structure, where different storylines come together seamlessly.

Translations

Translations of the word "harmonize" in other languages:

🇵🇹 harmonizar

🇮🇳 सुसंगत बनाना

🇩🇪 harmonisieren

🇮🇩 menyelaraskan

🇺🇦 гармонізувати

🇵🇱 harmonizować

🇯🇵 調和させる (ちょうわさせる)

🇫🇷 harmoniser

🇪🇸 armonizar

🇹🇷 uyumlu hale getirmek

🇰🇷 조화시키다

🇸🇦 تناغم

🇨🇿 harmonizovat

🇸🇰 harmonizovať

🇨🇳 协调 (xié tiáo)

🇸🇮 uskladiti

🇮🇸 samræma

🇰🇿 үйлестіру

🇬🇪 შეთანხმება

🇦🇿 uyğunlaşdırmaq

🇲🇽 armonizar

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #15,575, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
15572 unhappiness
15573 hoop
15574 jeopardize
15575 harmonize
15576 roster
15577 representational
15578 priceless
...