1. Consonance as a Literary Device:
* Definition: Consonance is the repetition of consonant sounds within a phrase or sentence. It's a type of alliteration where the repeated sounds can be anywhere in the words, not just at the beginning.
* Effect: Consonance creates a musical effect, adding rhythm and emphasis to the text. It can also create a sense of unity or connection between the words that share the consonant sound.
* Example: "The sea shells shined softly in the sand." (The repeated "s" sound creates a hissing sound, mimicking the movement of the sea)
2. Consonance as a Musical Term:
* Definition: In music, consonance refers to a combination of notes that sound harmonious and pleasing to the ear. These notes typically have a simple mathematical relationship to each other.
* Example: A major chord (like a C major chord) is considered consonant, while a dissonant chord (like a diminished chord) sounds jarring and unstable.
To distinguish between the two, pay attention to the context. If you're reading a poem or literary text, it's likely referring to the literary device. If you're discussing music, it likely refers to the musical term.