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Diminished Triads

Definition

Diminished triads are three-note chords consisting of two minor thirds stacked on top of each other. They create a tense and unstable sound.

Analogy

Think of a diminished triad as a wobbly table with three legs that are all different lengths. It's unbalanced and creates an uneasy feeling.

Related terms

Augmented Triads: Three-note chords made up of two major thirds stacked on top of each other, creating a bright and tense sound.

Dominant Seventh Chords: Four-note chords built on the fifth scale degree, often used to create tension and lead back to the tonic.

Half-Diminished Seventh Chords: Four-note chords consisting of a diminished triad with an added minor seventh, commonly used in jazz music for their rich and complex sound.

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AP® and SAT® are trademarks registered by the College Board, which is not affiliated with, and does not endorse this website.