Describing something lacking a pleasant or recognizable melody; devoid of harmonious musical qualities. This term typically applies to sounds, music, or vocalizations that are perceived as discordant, unmelodic, or generally unpleasant to the ear. The absence of a discernible tune or engaging musical structure is the defining characteristic. It suggests a lack of rhythm, pitch variation, and overall musicality, causing the sound to be perceived as jarring or unattractive from a musical perspective. The term implies a specific criticism of musical aesthetic rather than a general lack of audibility.
Non-tuneful meaning with examples
- The experimental piece, though technically complex, was ultimately non-tuneful, filled with jarring chords and unpredictable rhythms that failed to create a cohesive musical experience. Critics found it stimulating but ultimately inaccessible and unappealing for casual listening. The cacophony was interesting to some but the absence of melody left many feeling unsatisfied with the experience.
- The amateur choir's performance, despite their enthusiasm, unfortunately, turned out to be non-tuneful. Off-key singing, a lack of coordination, and the absence of clear harmonies made the performance difficult to listen to. The audience shifted uncomfortably in their seats, wishing for some semblance of melodic cohesion. It was an enthusiastic effort, but it was not good.
- The construction site's constant clanging and hammering was a thoroughly non-tuneful soundtrack to city life, a grating backdrop to the day. The rhythmic crashes of metal, along with shouts and machinery, did not resemble music in any way. Commuters wished it would find a more pleasant audio experience, but the job had to be done.
- The avant-garde composer's latest work was intentionally non-tuneful, challenging conventional notions of beauty. The piece eschewed melody and traditional harmony in favor of dissonance and unconventional soundscapes that challenged the listeners' expectation. Some critics hailed it as a masterpiece while other struggled with the art form.