Translation guide
The English word 'chord' has two main meanings: a musical chord (multiple notes played together) and a geometric chord (a line segment connecting two points on a curve). This guide focuses on the musical meaning, which is far more common in everyday use.
A combination of three or more notes played simultaneously in music.
The most common and natural word for a musical chord in Japanese. It is a loanword from English and used in all contexts, from casual conversation to music theory.
A straight line segment whose endpoints both lie on a curve, especially a circle.
The standard mathematical term for a chord of a circle or curve. Also means 'bowstring' or 'string' of a musical instrument, but context makes the meaning clear.
この曲のコードを教えてください。
Please tell me the chords for this song.
ギターでコードを弾く。
I play chords on the guitar.
A native Japanese word for 'chord', literally 'harmonious sound'. It is more formal and often used in classical music contexts or music theory. Less common in casual conversation.
この和音は不協和音です。
This chord is dissonant.
円の弦の長さを求めなさい。
Find the length of the chord of the circle.