Tunings Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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tunings
[ˈtjuːnɪŋz ]
Definitions
music
Tunings refer to the specific pitches that the strings of a musical instrument are tuned to.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| tunings |
Used to refer to the different modes or settings on which an instrument can be adjusted to produce a specific set of notes. Typically used in reference to stringed instruments like guitars and violins.
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| pitch |
Refers to the perceived frequency of a sound, determining how high or low a note sounds. Used when discussing music, sound engineering, and vocal performance.
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| tuning |
Refers to the process or result of adjusting an instrument to the correct pitch. It is also used to describe the specific adjustment or setting used for an instrument.
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| tune |
Can be used to describe a melody or a musical piece, or the act of adjusting an instrument to achieve the correct pitch. It's common in both everyday language and musical contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The guitar player experimented with different tunings to create unique sounds.
- She adjusted the tunings on her violin to match the key of the song.
technology
In technology, tunings can also refer to the adjustment of parameters or settings to optimize performance.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| adjustment |
Typically used in general contexts to describe the act of making small changes or modifications to improve accuracy or functionality. It can be applied to a wide range of subjects, such as machines, plans, or behavior.
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| optimization |
Primarily used in technical or professional settings to describe the process of making something as effective or functional as possible. Often used in tech, business, and mathematics.
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Examples of usage
- The engineer fine-tuned the software's tunings for better efficiency.
- Proper tunings of the equipment can lead to significant improvements in output.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Music Theory
- In Western music, the standard tuning for a guitar starts with E-A-D-G-B-e, which helps musicians play together easily.
- Equal temperament is a widely used tuning system, dividing the octave into 12 equal parts, allowing for versatility in playing different keys.
- Different cultures have unique tuning systems, such as the just intonation in Indian classical music, emphasizing specific harmonic relationships.
Pop Culture
- The art of tuning instruments has been glorified in movies, where skilled technicians are often shown as essential characters in music-focused stories.
- Famous bands, like The Rolling Stones, have been known to have unique tunings that define their iconic sound.
- In the world of video games, certain soundtracks and themes utilize alternative tunings to create distinct atmospheres or moods.
Science
- The science of acoustics explains how sound waves interact with different materials, making proper tuning crucial for sound quality.
- Pitch perception studies reveal how humans can distinguish slight differences in tuning, showcasing the sensitivity of the ear.
- Mathematical concepts apply to tuning, including ratios that describe how pitches relate, an idea rooted in Pythagorean theory.
History
- In medieval Europe, tuning systems evolved from simple intervals to more complex frameworks as music theory developed.
- Many ancient cultures had specific gods or spirits of music associated with unique tuning practices, reflecting their cultural values.
- Historically, orchestras had to agree on a standard tuning pitch, leading to variations throughout eras until the modern A440 Hz standard was adopted.
Origin of 'tunings'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'tuning' comes from the Old French 'toner', which means 'to sound'.
- Originally used in the context of strings and sounds, the term has expanded to include many types of instruments.
- In English, the concept of 'tuning' has been around since at least the 14th century, indicating its long-standing importance in music.
The word 'tunings' originated from the verb 'tune', which comes from the Middle English word 'tunen', meaning 'to adjust or regulate'. The concept of tunings has been essential in music for centuries, allowing musicians to create harmonious sounds. In technology, tunings have become crucial for optimizing performance and efficiency in various systems and equipment.