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Syncopate - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Syncopate means to shift the rhythm in music by stressing the weak beats or omitting expected strong beats, creating an offbeat or unexpected pattern. It adds dynamic variation to musical phrasing.

syncopate

/ˈsɪŋkəˌpeɪt/ /ˈsɪŋkəpeɪt/

Definition:

To alter musical rhythm by stressing normally weak beats or omitting strong ones.

Synonyms:

displace, shift, disrupt, vary

Part of Speech:

verb

Antonyms:

maintain rhythm, regularize

Common Collocations:

syncopated rhythm, syncopate the beat, syncopate the melody

Derivatives:

syncopation, syncopated, syncopating

Usage Tips:

Use 'syncopate' to describe shifting musical accents for a lively or unexpected rhythmic effect.

Common Phrases:

syncopated beat, jazz syncopation, heavily syncopated

Etymology:

From Late Latin 'syncopare', meaning to cut short or omit syllables or beats.

Examples:

  • 1. The drummer loves to syncopate the rhythm for a jazzier feel.
  • 2. She learned how to syncopate the melody to make it more dynamic.
  • 3. The composer chose to syncopate the chorus for added energy.
  • 4. Syncopating the bassline gave the song a unique groove.

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