Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Definitions

off-key

[awf-kee, of-] / ˈɔfˈki, ˈɒf- /
ADJECTIVE
not sounding right
Synonyms
STRONGEST
discordant dissonant
WEAK
abnormal anomalous clinker deviant divergent flat inharmonious irregular jarring not harmonious off-pitch off-tone out of keeping out of pitch out-of-tune sour sour note unmusical unnatural untuned
Antonyms
STRONGEST
concordant harmonious
WEAK
on-key

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

After Hegseth gave us his version of news headlines, he performed a brief off-key song and dance before skating out of the room having accomplished little and settling nothing.

From Salon • Mar. 14, 2026

These songs look and feel like old-Hollywood-style musical numbers, but charm because of their imperfections; characters sing off-key, they lose their breath and their voices crack.

From Salon • Dec. 7, 2024

The former Years & Years singer, 33, had been criticised on social media for his "weak" and "off-key" vocals during the semi-final on Tuesday after his mic pack fell off during his performance.

From BBC • May 12, 2024

True to Caray, it appealed to the masses for being endearingly off-key.

From New York Times • Aug. 4, 2023

Sometimes de la O would join in, even though Stamey would rib him about how off-key he was.

From "Boots on the Ground: America's War in Vietnam" by Elizabeth Partridge