harmony
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /hˈɑːməni/
US
- /ˈhɑrməni/
Description
- Agreement
- balance
- peacefulness
Harmony isn't just about beautiful music; it describes a pleasing arrangement of parts that fit well together. Think of a perfectly blended choir: each voice is distinct, yet all of them work together to create something greater than the sum of its parts. You might find harmony in nature, in relationships, or even within yourself when your actions align with your beliefs. A harmonious home is one where everyone gets along.
Harmony can also describe agreement or peaceful cooperation. If two countries are "in harmony," it means they have calm and cooperative relations. More generally, it suggests that things fit together nicely, with a sense of balance and order.
Harmony describes a pleasing arrangement of parts, with a sense of balance, agreement, and peaceful coexistence. It's often associated with music, where different notes blend together to create a beautiful sound. But its meaning extends far beyond music. Think of a forest ecosystem: each plant and animal plays a role, contributing to the overall harmony of the environment.
Harmony can describe relationships between people. A harmonious family is one where members understand and support each other, resolving conflicts peacefully. It suggests a lack of discord or tension. You might say, "They lived in perfect harmony for fifty years."
Beyond relationships, harmony also refers to consistency and agreement in more abstract ideas. "There needs to be harmony between our actions and our values" means that what we do should align with what we believe. A designer might strive for visual harmony in a room by carefully selecting colors and textures that complement each other.
Historically, the concept of harmony has deep roots in philosophy and religion, often representing an ideal state of balance and order within the universe. From ancient Greek theories about musical proportions to Eastern philosophies that emphasize interconnectedness, harmony has long been seen as essential for well-being and a fulfilling life.
So whether you're describing music, relationships, design, or philosophical ideals, harmony points to a sense of pleasing coherence, where things fit together beautifully and work in unison.
Examples
- 1
Music
The choir sang in perfect harmony.
- 2
Visual design
The colors in the room create a feeling of harmony.
- 3
Family peace
After years of arguing, the two brothers are finally living in harmony.
Phrase
live in harmony
live peacefully together
- 4
Workplace
Good managers try to keep everyone working in harmony.
- 5
Architecture
The new building was designed to be in harmony with the old houses nearby.
Pattern
in harmony with + thing
matching or fitting well with it
- 6
Actions vs promises
His actions were not in harmony with his promises.
Pattern
not in harmony with + thing
not matching or agreeing with it
- 7
People and nature
The festival celebrates the idea that people and nature can exist in harmony.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- harmonynoun
Forms
- harmoniespluralnoun