harmonize
HAR-muh-nyze
/ˈhɑːr.mə.naɪz/
To bring into harmony; to make consistent or compatible.
Harmonize can apply to music, colors, laws, or people. It suggests that different parts are being adjusted so they fit together without clashing.
The story behind the word. From the Greek 'harmonia', which originally referred to a 'joint' in carpentry or masonry. Just as a well-made joint fits two pieces of wood together perfectly, harmonize describes making different elements fit together seamlessly.
Word relationships
- unite: Unite means to make into one; harmonize means to make different parts work together beautifully while remaining distinct.
- clash: Clash means to be in conflict or to look/sound bad together, the opposite of harmonize.
Commonly confused with
- synchronize: Synchronize means to make things happen at the same time; harmonize means to make things fit together aesthetically or logically.
Word family
- harmony (noun): The state of being in agreement or concord.
- harmonious (adjective): Tuneful; not discordant; free from disagreement.
Collocations
- harmonize efforts
- harmonize standards
- harmonize voices
Example sentences
- "The European Union works to harmonize the trade laws of its member states." International Law
- "The backup singers were trained to harmonize perfectly with the lead vocalist." Music
Memory hook
Think of a 'harmony' in music where different notes sound great together. Fitting the joints together.
When not to use
Do not use when you mean 'to agree' (e.g., 'I harmonize with you' is awkward; use 'I agree with you').
Fun facts
- In the Middle Ages, 'The Music of the Spheres' was a philosophical concept that the movements of celestial bodies created a form of music that harmonized the universe.
Explore more words
reconcile, coordinate, integrate, harmony, orchestrate, align
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