By ear
Example: She learned to play the piano by ear.
Definition
"By ear" refers to the ability to play music or recognize musical notes without reading written music, relying solely on listening and memory. For example, when someone learns to play the piano by ear, they reproduce melodies without sheet music.
Etymology
The phrase "by ear" originates from the idea of using the ear as the primary means of perceiving and learning music. It contrasts with reading music from notation, emphasizing natural listening skills. Did you know that before widespread music notation, many musicians developed their skills entirely by ear?
Learn to use this word actively
"By ear" appears in the Vocaplus list "English - Music - (A2) - set 1", containing 102 commonly used words.
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