off-key

UK: /ˌɒf ˈkiː/ | US: /ˌɔːf ˈkiː/

Definition

  1. adj. 1. (of singing or music) not in the correct pitch; out of tune.

  2. adj. 2. (figuratively) inappropriate or incongruous; not fitting the situation.

Structure
off <away from>key <musical pitch>
Etymology

The term "off-key" originated in musical contexts, combining "off" (Old English "of," meaning "away from") and "key" (Old English "cǣg," referring to musical pitch or tonality). It literally describes singing or playing notes that deviate from the intended pitch. By the early 20th century, it gained figurative use to describe anything jarring or mismatched, extending the musical metaphor to broader contexts.

Examples

  1. The choir sounded off-key during the rehearsal.

  2. His joke about the accident felt off-key and uncomfortable.

  3. The violin solo went off-key in the final movement.

  4. Her bright outfit was off-key at the somber event.

  5. The actor’s accent was slightly off-key for the historical role.