major third

Questions

What does major third mean?

A musical interval in Western music that is equal to or approximates a frequency ratio of 5/4. In twelve-tone equal temperament, it consists of four standard semitones, spans three degrees of the diatonic scale, and is enharmonically equivalent to a diminished fourth. Major scales are so named because of the major third interval between the tonic and mediant of a major tonic triad.

How to pronounce major third

1. Open the pronunciation page — Open the Speakur entry for “major third”.
2. Read the phonetic spelling — Read the IPA spelling () so you know which sounds to aim for.
3. Play the audio — Click Play to hear reference audio for “major third”.
4. Repeat and practice — Say “major third” aloud, matching stress and vowels until it feels natural.