Interval: meaning, definitions and examples

mathematical

An interval is a set of real numbers with the property that any number that lies between two numbers in the set is also included in the set. Intervals can be open (not including the endpoints), closed (including the endpoints), or half-open (including one endpoint but not the other).

range, scope, span

Examples of usage

• The interval (0, 1) includes all real numbers between 0 and 1, but not 0 and 1 themselves.

• The interval [2, 5] includes all real numbers from 2 to 5, including 2 and 5.

time

An interval refers to a period of time between two specified points or events. It can be a short interval, like a few minutes, or a longer interval, like a decade.

Examples of usage

• There was a brief interval between the two acts of the play.

• The intervals between meals are important for digestion.

music

In music theory, an interval is the difference in pitch between two notes. Intervals can be classified as major, minor, perfect, augmented, or diminished, depending on the number of half steps they contain.

Examples of usage

• The interval between C and E is a major third.

• The song uses a variety of intervals to create tension and resolution.