B2noun1K

Tune

UK /["/tjuːn/"]/US /["/tuːn/"]/

Definition

a series of musical notes that are sung or played in a particular order to form a piece of music

In simple words: A melody or song.

Examples

  • I can't get that catchy tune out of my head.
  • The orchestra played a beautiful tune that captivated the audience.
  • Can you help me tune my guitar for tonight's performance?
  • After some adjustments, the piano was finally in tune.
  • He hummed a gentle tune while he worked in the garden.

Usage notes

Use 'tune' to refer to melodies, often in a musical context. It's informal when talking about common songs, but can also be formal in music composition. Avoid using it for complex musical pieces.

Grammar pattern

tune + object

Memory hint

Think of 'tune' as 'tune your ear' to a nice melody.

Collocations

  • little
  • good
  • great
  • hum
  • play (somebody)
  • sing
  • to the tune of something

Synonyms

  • melody
  • song
  • air
  • harmony
  • ditty

Antonyms

  • dissonance
  • discord

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'tune in' meaning to listen or watch.
  • Using 'tune' as a verb only when it can also be a noun.
  • Forget to use 'tune' when referring to familiar songs or jingles.