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Showing results for dissonance. Search instead for dissonanc.
Definitions

dissonance

[dis-uh-nuhns] / ˈdɪs ə nəns /
NOUN
disagreement
Synonyms
STRONGEST
discord discrepancy disparity dissension incongruity
STRONG
antagonism conflict contention controversy difference disharmony dissidence inconsistency strife variance
WEAK
disaccord
Antonyms
STRONGEST
agreement concurrence harmony
STRONG
accord concord peace similarity sympathy
WEAK
consonance peacefulness resonance
NOUN
noise, discord
Synonyms
STRONG
cacophony harshness jangle
WEAK
jarring unmelodiousness
Antonyms
WEAK
accord agreement concord consonance harmony peacefulness resonance

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

For some, the LP may be gorgeous to a fault—musically, there’s very little friction or dissonance on the album, nothing harsh to dislodge you from the spell the record casts.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 24, 2026

For a few, doubt creeps in, but most overcome their cognitive dissonance and reinflate the bubble of credulity that constitutes their comfort zone.

From Salon • Mar. 14, 2026

“What a Wonderful World” treats dissonance, cacophony and intensity as metaphors for daily life.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 3, 2026

I predicted this miserable state of affairs back in 2017, after interviewing psychology experts on cognitive dissonance.

From Salon • Jan. 19, 2026

They stared at him, at his face that was as blue as his hands, and they struggled—all save Thyon—with an overwhelming upsurge of cognitive dissonance.

From "Strange the Dreamer" by Laini Taylor