high notes

USAGE SUMMARY

'high notes' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to tones that are high-pitched in a musical or vocal performance, as in: The singer hit all the high notes perfectly.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Those operatic high notes!

The New Yorker

He hit the high notes especially well.

The New Yorker

"The high notes are ugly.

The New York Times - Arts

High Notes What becomes a legend most?

The New York Times

It maintains your high notes, your agility.

The New York Times - Arts

And he takes the high notes fearlessly.

The New York Times

"But a lot in the high notes.

The New York Times - Arts

The Sopranos hits the high notes.

The Guardian

Here and there her sustained high notes wavered.

The New York Times - Arts

If they hit the high notes, they were in.

The New York Times

"You're nervous going for those really high notes.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "high notes" in a musical context, ensure it accurately reflects the pitch range being discussed. Consider whether "high notes" refers to a specific instance or a general capability.

Common error

Avoid using "high notes" loosely as a synonym for any positive aspect. Ensure the context maintains a connection to the idea of a peak or climax, either literally or figuratively. Not every positive detail is a "high note".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "high notes" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or preposition. It typically refers to the uppermost range of musical pitches, or, figuratively, to the most significant or successful points. Ludwig provides various examples showing its usage in both literal and figurative contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "high notes" is a versatile noun phrase that refers to both musical pitches and figurative peaks. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Its meaning is easily understood, and it appears frequently in News & Media, Wiki, and Science contexts. Remember to use it accurately, either in its literal musical sense or figuratively to highlight significant achievements. When in doubt, consider if alternatives like "peak moments" or "key highlights" might be more precise. By understanding its nuances, you can effectively incorporate "high notes" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

peak moments

Focuses on the timing and importance of the high points rather than their specific nature.

key highlights

Emphasizes importance and selection of the most significant aspects.

defining moments

Highlights events that are pivotal or transformative.

notable achievements

Shifts the focus to accomplishments and successes.

greatest successes

Focuses specifically on successful outcomes and achievements.

significant events

Highlights the importance of particular occurrences.

crucial points

Focuses on the essential and decisive elements.

important details

Highlights particular parts that carry significant weight.

essential features

Emphasizes the fundamental and necessary aspects.

climax

Suggests a culmination or point of highest intensity.

FAQs

How can I use "high notes" in a sentence?

You can use "high notes" to refer to the highest pitches in music, as in, "The singer struggled with the high notes". It can also be used figuratively to describe peak moments or highlights, as in, "The project hit several high notes during the presentation".

What are some alternatives to "high notes"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives such as "peak moments", "key highlights", or "notable achievements".

Which is correct, "high notes" or "highest notes"?

"High notes" refers generally to notes in the upper range of a musical scale. "Highest notes" specifically refers to the absolute highest notes, implying a more extreme or specific range.

Is it appropriate to use "high notes" in formal writing?

Yes, it is appropriate, but ensure the context is suitable. In formal writing, especially in business or academic contexts, using more precise language like "significant achievements" or "key aspects" might be more suitable depending on what you want to convey.