tone-deaf

Definitions

1. 1

   Unable to clearly distinguish the difference in pitch between different notes.

   • Although he was tone-deaf, he was a great lyricist.
   • This is a distinction unavailable to the tone-deaf.
2. 2

   Having little or a shallow or banal appreciation of music, whether or not as a result of…

   Having little or a shallow or banal appreciation of music, whether or not as a result of tone deafness.

3. 3

   Out of touch with the experience of ordinary people.

   • a politician's tone-deaf remarks about the price of bread
   • The elected official's tone-deaf remarks about the operations of the clerk’s office were disappointing.
4. ›+ 1 more definitionshow fewer

   1. 4

      Insensitive and offensive as a result of not noticing the current social context.

      • Otherwise, saying “N-word” is plenty accurate; I knew exactly what you meant. And arguing for your need to use an explosive term, when a common euphemism will do, makes you seem defensive and tone-deaf.
      • The campaign – which Fast Company described as “eyebrow-raising”, “controversial” and “tone-deaf” – did not land well.

The neighborhood

• neighboramusia
• neighborcan't carry a tune in a bucket
• neighborhave Van Gogh's ear for music
• neighborperfect pitch
• neighborstone deaf
• neighbortin ear