close harmony

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close harmony" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in music to describe a style of vocal or instrumental arrangement where the notes are close together in pitch, creating a rich and blended sound. Example: "The choir's performance was remarkable, showcasing their ability to sing in close harmony throughout the entire piece."

✓ Grammatically correct

Music

Relationships

Architecture

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Such a belief disperses the feeling of being in close harmony with nature that pregnancy inspires.

The New Yorker

But on "Tramp," the songs are sung in close harmony practically from start to finish.

The New York Times - Magazine

But they have an amazing, distinctive sound built around three lead vocalists singing close harmony.

The New York Times

The Zion Harmonizers are the most traditional group, singing in deep, close harmony with minimal accompaniment.

The New York Times - Arts

As well expect cats in a sack to miaow the Hallelujah Chorus in close harmony.

The Guardian

Pablo Casals's "O Vos Omnes" spoke of a nostalgia for close harmony and old-time religion.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

24 human-written examples

Lobbyist, company chairman, billionaire investor: a close-harmony chorus of influence pushing policy behind closed doors.

The Guardian

This was more than close-harmony singing; each instance was an act of transubstantiation.

The New York Times - Books

The crowd loved their close-harmony singing, and the Nassoons were born.

Princeton University

Dinosaurs stalked the stage and market analysts broke out in close-harmony singing.

The Guardian

Most Scots can't get enough of their sweaty, shouty, close-harmony, call-and-response songs.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing musical performances, use "close harmony" to emphasize the tight, blended vocal or instrumental arrangement. It suggests a unified and well-coordinated sound.

Common error

Avoid using "close harmony" in situations where you are referring to a casual agreement. While it can metaphorically apply to non-musical contexts, it is primarily understood as a musical term. In those other contexts consider using "near agreement" or "good rapport" instead.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "close harmony" is as a noun phrase, often used to describe a specific style of musical arrangement. Ludwig indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

22%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

8%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "close harmony" primarily describes a musical arrangement characterized by tightly spaced notes and blended sounds, as validated by Ludwig. This phrase is grammatically correct and commonly appears in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Academia. While it can be metaphorically extended to describe general agreement, it's best reserved for musical contexts to maintain clarity. Alternatives like "tight harmony" or "blended voices" can be used to emphasize specific aspects of the musical arrangement. Therefore, when writing about music, using "close harmony" accurately enhances the description of the sound and style.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tight harmony

Refers to a similar musical concept with a more emphatic adjective.

close musical arrangement

Specifies the musical nature of the harmony.

compact harmony

Emphasizes the density and closeness of the musical notes.

blended voices

Focuses on the vocal aspect of creating harmony.

harmonious blend

Highlights the pleasant and unified quality of the sound.

consonant chords

Refers to chords that sound pleasing and stable together.

near agreement

Shifts the context to general agreement rather than music.

good rapport

Implies a positive and harmonious relationship.

harmonious relationship

Expresses a pleasing or agreeable relationship.

unified front

Suggests a state of agreement and cooperation.

FAQs

How is "close harmony" used in music?

"Close harmony" describes a style of musical arrangement where the notes in a chord are close together, creating a blended and rich sound, typically in vocal performances.

Can "close harmony" be used outside of musical contexts?

While primarily a musical term, "close harmony" can metaphorically describe situations of "near agreement" or strong alignment. However, it's best to reserve it for musical descriptions to avoid confusion.

What are some alternatives to "close harmony" when describing musical arrangements?

Alternatives include "tight harmony", "compact harmony", or "blended voices" depending on the specific aspect you want to emphasize.

What's the difference between "close harmony" and standard harmony?

"Close harmony" specifically refers to the tight spacing of notes within chords, creating a distinctive sound. Standard harmony is a broader term encompassing all types of chord progressions and relationships, without necessarily implying such tight spacing.