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Minor Second

Definition

A minor second is the smallest interval in Western music, consisting of two adjacent notes that are one half step apart.

Analogy

Imagine you're walking up a flight of stairs and you accidentally trip on the first step. That sudden jolt you feel is like a minor second - it's a small, close-together interval that can catch you off guard.

Related terms

Major Second: A major second is an interval consisting of two adjacent notes that are one whole step apart.

Intervals: Intervals refer to the distance between two pitches in music.

Half Step: A half step is the smallest distance between two adjacent notes on a piano or guitar.

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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.