minor triad: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples

In strict theory, a 'minor triad' is the basic three-note structure. A 'minor chord' can be more general, sometimes including additional notes (like a minor seventh), but in common parlance, they are often used interchangeably for the basic chord.

This is a cultural association rather than an acoustic absolute. Western listeners learn to associate the specific frequency ratios of the minor third interval with melancholy, a convention reinforced by centuries of musical practice.

Yes, on any instrument capable of producing at least three distinct pitches simultaneously (like piano, guitar) or in succession (arpeggiated on melodic instruments). The relationship between the notes defines the triad.

They use the same three piano keys (A, C, E) but have different root notes. A minor triad is A-C-E (root, minor third, perfect fifth). C major triad is C-E-G (root, major third, perfect fifth). This demonstrates the concept of relative keys.

In music theory, a three-note chord consisting of a root note, a minor third above the root, and a perfect fifth above the root.

Minor triad is usually technical/formal in register.

Minor triad: in British English it is pronounced /ˈmaɪnə ˈtraɪæd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈmaɪnər ˈtraɪæd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.