Melody” and “tune” are musical terms that are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings. A “melody” is a sequence of musical notes arranged in a particular rhythmic pattern, while a “tune” is a type of melody that is catchy and easily memorable.

Melody

Definition:

A “melody” is a group of musical notes played or sung in a specific order that creates a pleasing sound. It forms the main part of a song or piece of music.

Examples of use:

The violinist played a beautiful melody that captivated the audience.

Each verse of the song has the same melody but different lyrics.

A good melody can evoke strong emotions and memories.

Tune

Definition:

A “tune” is a type of melody that is simple, catchy, and easily remembered. It often refers to the main musical theme of a song.

Examples of use:

The children hummed a familiar tune as they walked to school.

I can’t get that tune out of my head; it’s so catchy!

She whistled a cheerful tune while cooking dinner.


While both “melody” and “tune” refer to sequences of musical notes, a “melody” is a broader term describing any musical sequence that creates a pleasing sound, while a “tune” specifically refers to a simple and memorable melody. Understanding the subtle difference can help in discussing music with greater precision.

Learn English