chord - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
chord Word Meanings
- a group of notes played together
- a musical harmony
- an emotional or spiritual bond
chord Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
chord Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kɔːd/
US
/kɔrd/
chord Word Etymology
Root decomposition: chor- (from Greek 'khoros' meaning 'dance') + d (related to 'to cause or perform'). Historical origin: Greek → Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Picture a group of dancers forming a beautiful arc, representing harmony and teamwork.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Chord is a group of notes sounded together to create harmony in music, often forming the backbone of a chord progression and the emotional color of a piece. More broadly, it can describe a strong bond or alignment among people, ideas, or experiences. The etymology traces from Greek khoros meaning 'dance', through Latin and Old French to English, underscoring how coordinated movement once shaped the word. A vivid memory image: dancers forming a graceful arc, each person contributing to a single, resonant line that others hear as unity.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: use a singular 'chord' for one set of notes
- In music theory, a chord is built from intervals and scale degrees
- Metaphorically, a 'chord' can describe a bond or unity
- Do not confuse with 'cord' (a rope) or 'chordate' (a biological group)
- Practice by listening to how different chords color a progression
Common Misconceptions
- Chord and cord are the same word
- A chord is only for guitars or pianos
- All chords sound the same
- A chord equals a melody
- Chords are only major; there are no minor or seventh chords
Thinking Differences
Chord in English blends musical meaning with a metaphor for unity; learners often confuse it with cord (rope) and expect chords to exist only in guitar music.
Learning Tips
- Listen to chord progressions in different genres to hear color
- Practice identifying major vs minor chords by ear
- Learn common seventh and suspended chords gradually
- Play along with recordings to feel the changes in emotion
- Keep chord shapes simple at first, then add extensions
- Compare chords on guitar and piano to hear overlaps
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'chord'?
A.A musical instrument
B.A line segment connecting two points on a curve
C.A type of food
D.A type of flower
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'chord' used correctly?
A.She played a beautiful chord on the piano.
B.I bought a chord of firewood for the winter.
C.The chef prepared a delicious chord for dinner.
D.The garden was filled with colorful chords.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following is a synonym for 'chord'?
A.Melody
B.Curve
C.Harmony
D.Pause
Step 4: Opposite Words
How is the concept of 'chord' relevant in geometry?
A.It connects two points on a circle
B.It is a type of angle measurement
C.It relates to the curvature of shapes
D.It is used in algebraic equations
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where understanding 'chord' is important?
A.Solving musical puzzles
B.Navigating through a maze
C.Designing architectural structures
D.Creating digital artwork
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