What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
surd
Example
The surd screech of the chalk on the blackboard made everyone cringe. [surd: adjective]
Example
The surd sounds of the construction site made it hard to concentrate. [surd: noun]
dissonant
Example
The dissonant notes in the song made it hard to enjoy. [dissonant: adjective]
Example
The dissonance between their opinions created an uncomfortable atmosphere. [dissonance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dissonant is more commonly used than surd in everyday language, especially in the context of music theory. Surd is less common and more technical, and may not be familiar to many ESL learners.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between surd and dissonant?
Surd is a more formal term than dissonant, which is versatile enough to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
