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Minor Third

An interval spanning three semitones, often described as having a dark, melancholic, or tender quality.

Category
intervals
Pronunciation
/ˈmaɪnə θɜːd/
Origin

Latin (tertius, third)

Length
200 words · 1 min read

About Minor Third

The minor third is the interval from C to E-flat, or from A to C, and it is the defining interval of the minor triad and minor tonality. Its characteristic sound — often described as sad, wistful, or introspective — pervades countless melodies and harmonies across all genres.
v1 · 10/04/2026Browse all terms →