Nelson-Denny Practice Test

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Enhance your vocabulary and reading comprehension skills with the Nelson-Denny test. Study with comprehensive flashcards and multiple-choice questions. Ensure your success with detailed explanations and insights!

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What term refers to a harsh and discordant mixture of sounds?

Harmony
Cacophony
Melody
Symphony

The correct answer is: Cacophony

The term that refers to a harsh and discordant mixture of sounds is "cacophony." This word is used to describe an unpleasant, jarring collection of noises that are often chaotic and lack harmony. Cacophony can be created in various contexts, such as in music when dissonant sounds clash or in everyday life with loud and clashing noises from multiple sources. This concept emphasizes the idea of disarray and lack of musical or auditory beauty. In contrast, the other terms represent more pleasant or organized aspects of sound. "Harmony" refers to the combination of different musical notes played or sung simultaneously that produce a pleasing effect. "Melody" is a sequence of notes that are musically satisfying, typically forming a recognizable tune. "Symphony" refers to a large-scale musical composition, usually for orchestras, that is structured and harmonious. Understanding these distinctions highlights why cacophony is the appropriate term for a disordered and jarring sound mixture.