Syncopation - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
Syncopation is a musical rhythm that shifts accents to weak beats or offbeats, creating unexpected patterns. It adds complexity and groove to music, commonly found in jazz and dance styles.
Definition:
Shifting musical accents to weak beats, creating rhythmic disruption or complexity.
Synonyms:
offbeat, counterpoint, rhythm shift
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
regularity, uniformity
Common Collocations:
jazz syncopation, rhythmic syncopation, strong syncopation
Derivatives:
syncopate, syncopated, syncopating
Usage Tips:
Use "syncopation" to describe unexpected rhythms in music or speech for dynamic effect.
Common Phrases:
off the beat, break the rhythm, cut time
Etymology:
From Late Latin "syncopatio," meaning contraction or shortening of a word or musical rhythm.
Examples:
- 1. The drummer added syncopation to the groove for a lively feel.
- 2. Her dance moves followed the song’s syncopation perfectly.
- 3. Jazz often features heavy syncopation for a playful rhythm.
- 4. The composer used syncopation to break predictability in the melody.