At the A1 level, 'resonance' is a very difficult word that you probably won't use often. Think of it simply as a 'big sound.' Imagine a large bell ringing. After you hit the bell, the sound stays in the air for a long time. That 'humming' or 'ringing' is resonance. It is a sound that feels deep and full. You might hear it when someone talks about a 'loud, deep voice' or a 'big drum.' At this stage, just remember that it is a noun used for sounds that are not short and sharp, but long and deep. It is like the 'echo' you feel inside a large room. You don't need to use it in your own speaking yet, but if you see it, think of a deep, vibrating sound that fills a space. It is a special word for a very rich sound.
For A2 learners, 'resonance' can be understood as a 'strong sound' or a 'sound that carries.' You might hear it when people talk about music. For example, a piano has resonance because the wooden box makes the strings sound louder and better. It is the quality that makes a sound feel 'thick' rather than 'thin.' You can also start to think about it as a 'feeling' that a story gives you. If you watch a movie and you keep thinking about it the next day, you could say the movie had a 'strong feeling' for you. In English, we call that 'resonance.' It is when a sound or an idea 'vibrates' in your head. It is a more advanced way to say 'powerful' or 'deep.' Try to notice it when people talk about singers with very deep, beautiful voices.
At the B1 level, you can begin to use 'resonance' to describe both sounds and ideas. In terms of sound, it refers to the richness and depth of a tone. For example, 'The singer's voice had a beautiful resonance.' Metaphorically, it describes the way an idea or a story connects with people. If a teacher tells a story that makes all the students think about their own lives, that story has 'resonance.' It means the story 'vibrates' with the students' own experiences. You might see this word in news articles about politics or art. A politician's speech might have 'resonance' with the voters if it talks about things they care about. It is a great word to use instead of 'impact' or 'connection' when you want to sound more precise and descriptive about how something makes people feel.
At the B2 level, 'resonance' becomes a key word for discussing culture, media, and science. You should understand that it implies a 'matching' of frequencies. In physics, this is literal—one object vibrating at the same rate as another. In culture, it is metaphorical—an idea 'vibrating' at the same rate as a person's values or emotions. You can use it to analyze literature or film: 'The theme of isolation has a particular resonance in today's digital age.' It suggests that the theme is not just present, but that it deeply affects the audience because it relates to their current reality. You will also encounter it in medical contexts like 'Magnetic Resonance Imaging' (MRI). At this level, you should be comfortable using 'resonance' as a noun and 'resonate' as a verb to describe deep connections and lasting impressions.
At the C1 level, you are expected to use 'resonance' with nuance and precision. You should be able to distinguish between its acoustic, emotional, and technical meanings. In academic or professional writing, you might use it to describe the 'cultural resonance' of a historical event or the 'tonal resonance' of a musical instrument. It implies a depth of meaning that goes beyond the surface. When you say a poem has 'historical resonance,' you are suggesting it evokes a whole network of memories, events, and emotions related to the past. You should also be aware of its use in complex fields like engineering (resonance frequencies) or chemistry (molecular resonance). Using this word correctly shows a high level of literacy and an ability to handle abstract concepts that link physical phenomena with psychological experiences. It is a hallmark of sophisticated English usage.
For C2 mastery, 'resonance' is a tool for profound philosophical and technical expression. You understand it as a fundamental principle of the universe—the way systems interact and amplify one another. You can use it to discuss the 'ontological resonance' of a philosophical argument or the 'subtle resonances' within a complex piece of symphonic music. At this level, you recognize that resonance is about the 'intertextuality' of ideas—how one concept triggers a sympathetic vibration in another. You might use it in high-level critiques to describe the 'unintended resonances' of a political policy or the 'mythic resonance' of a modern tragedy. Your usage should reflect an understanding that resonance is not just about 'loudness' or 'impact,' but about the sophisticated, often invisible, connections that give life and meaning to both physical matter and human thought. It is about the harmony of the whole.

resonance in 30 Sekunden

  • Resonance is primarily a noun describing a deep, vibrating sound that fills a space, often found in musical instruments or large rooms.
  • Metaphorically, it refers to the emotional impact of an idea or story that connects deeply with a person's experiences or values.
  • In science and medicine, it describes physical systems vibrating together, most notably in MRI scans (Magnetic Resonance Imaging).
  • It is a C1-level word used to describe depth, harmony, and lasting significance in both physical and abstract contexts.

The word resonance is a sophisticated term that bridges the gap between the physical world of acoustics and the internal world of human emotion. At its core, resonance describes the quality of a sound being deep, full, and able to vibrate through a space. However, in modern English, it is most frequently used metaphorically to describe the power of an idea, a memory, or a piece of art to evoke a strong, lasting emotional response. When we say a speech has resonance, we mean it doesn't just enter the ears and vanish; it vibrates within the listener's mind, connecting with their personal experiences and values. This dual nature makes it an essential word for scientists, musicians, and storytellers alike.

Physical Acoustics
In physics, resonance occurs when a system is able to store and easily transfer energy between two or more different storage modes. For example, when you push a child on a swing, if you push at the right frequency, the swing goes higher. That is mechanical resonance. In sound, it is why a hollow guitar body makes the strings sound louder and richer.

The cello's deep resonance filled the small stone chapel, making the very air feel heavy with music.

Beyond the physical, the word thrives in the realm of communication. A political message has resonance if it speaks to the hidden anxieties or hopes of the public. A novel has resonance if its themes of loss or triumph stay with the reader long after the final page is turned. It implies a 'frequency' match between the sender and the receiver. If an idea has no resonance, it feels flat, irrelevant, or forgettable. It is the difference between hearing a fact and feeling a truth. In professional settings, marketing experts strive for brand resonance, which is the ultimate level of connection where customers feel a deep psychological bond with a product.

Emotional Depth
This refers to the evocative power of an object or experience. A photograph of an old childhood home carries a specific resonance that a stranger would not perceive. It is the 'echo' of memory triggered by a sensory input.

The candidate's promises of economic reform found a powerful resonance among the working-class voters.

In scientific contexts, particularly medicine, you will encounter the term in 'Magnetic Resonance Imaging' (MRI). Here, it refers to the way atoms in the body respond to radio waves within a magnetic field. This technical usage reminds us that resonance is always about a response to a stimulus. Whether it is a physical particle or a human heart, resonance requires something to be 'in tune' with something else. Without that harmony, there is no resonance, only noise. Understanding this word allows you to describe why certain things matter deeply while others are ignored.

Symbolic Significance
In literature, symbols carry resonance when they represent something much larger than themselves. A simple ring might have the resonance of eternal love or a heavy burden, depending on the story's context.

There was a haunting resonance in the empty hallways of the abandoned school.

The poet used words that had a historical resonance, reminding the audience of their shared past.

Engineers must calculate the resonance of a bridge to ensure it doesn't collapse during a storm.

Using the word resonance correctly requires an understanding of whether you are describing a physical sound or an abstract feeling. As a noun, it often follows adjectives that specify the type of impact being discussed. Common pairings include 'emotional resonance', 'cultural resonance', 'political resonance', or 'tonal resonance'. It is a versatile tool for adding depth to your descriptions of why something is important or moving.

Describing Art and Literature
When critiquing a movie or book, use resonance to explain why the story felt 'real' or 'important'. Example: 'The film’s exploration of grief had a profound resonance for anyone who has lost a loved one.'

The ancient myth still has a strange resonance in our modern, high-tech world.

In scientific or technical writing, resonance is treated as a measurable phenomenon. You might talk about the 'resonance frequency' of a circuit or the 'orbital resonance' of planets. In these cases, the word is strictly literal. It describes a state where one object's vibration causes another to vibrate at the same rate. This is the origin of the word, and keeping this image of 'vibrating together' in mind will help you use the metaphorical version more effectively.

In Social and Political Contexts
Politicians look for 'resonant' issues—topics that trigger a strong reaction in the electorate. Example: 'The slogan lacked resonance because it didn't address the daily struggles of the people.'

The singer's voice was praised for its rich resonance and clarity in the lower registers.

Another way to use the word is in the phrase 'find resonance with'. This describes the act of an idea connecting with an audience. If you say, 'My ideas found little resonance with the board of directors,' you are saying they didn't care or didn't agree. It’s a more elegant way of saying 'they didn't like it' or 'it didn't click'. It suggests a lack of harmony between your proposal and their goals.

In Medical and Technical Fields
Technicians often discuss the 'magnetic resonance' used in imaging. Example: 'The patient was scheduled for a magnetic resonance scan to check for ligament damage.'

The architect designed the hall specifically to enhance the acoustic resonance of the orchestra.

There is a deep emotional resonance in the way he speaks about his late grandfather.

The discovery of the old letters added a new resonance to the family's history.

You will encounter resonance in several distinct environments, each using a slightly different shade of its meaning. In the world of high-end journalism and literary criticism, it is a favorite for describing the 'staying power' of a work. When a critic writes for the New York Times or The Guardian, they might discuss the 'thematic resonance' of a new play, meaning the play deals with issues that are currently very important to society. If you enjoy reading book reviews or watching video essays about films, you will hear this word constantly.

Music and Performing Arts
In music conservatories or among audiophiles, resonance refers to the physical richness of sound. A violin might be described as having 'extraordinary resonance,' meaning its wood vibrates in a way that produces a lush, lingering tone. Singers also work on their 'vocal resonance' to project their voice without straining.

The opera house was built with a shape that maximizes the resonance of the human voice.

In the medical field, the word is part of daily life due to MRI scans. Doctors and nurses will often say, 'We need to get a resonance scan,' or simply refer to 'the MRI.' While patients might not think about the physics of it, the word is technically describing how the magnetic field causes the hydrogen nuclei in the body to 'resonate' so they can be mapped. Similarly, in engineering and physics lectures, resonance is discussed as a dangerous force that can destroy structures if not managed—like the famous Tacoma Narrows Bridge collapse.

Politics and Marketing
Campaign managers and brand strategists use resonance to measure how well their message is 'landing.' If a brand's values have resonance with Gen Z, it means that generation feels a personal connection to what the brand stands for. It is a key metric for success in persuasion.

The speaker's words had a deep resonance with the audience's own experiences of struggle.

Finally, you will hear it in spiritual or philosophical discussions. People might talk about 'finding resonance' with a particular belief system or teacher. In this context, it describes a feeling of 'coming home' to an idea that feels intuitively right. It is less about logic and more about a holistic sense of alignment. Whether you are in a lab, a theater, or a political rally, resonance is the word used to describe that powerful moment when two things—be they waves or souls—begin to vibrate in unison.

Scientific Research
Chemists use 'nuclear magnetic resonance' (NMR) to determine the structure of molecules. This is a highly technical but very common use of the word in laboratory settings.

The bridge began to sway as the wind reached the structure's natural resonance frequency.

The marketing team was thrilled by the resonance of their new environmental campaign.

The professor explained how the resonance of the pipes created the organ's unique sound.

One of the most frequent errors with resonance is confusing it with 'relevance'. While they are related, they are not interchangeable. 'Relevance' means something is applicable or connected to the matter at hand—it is a logical connection. 'Resonance' implies a deeper, often emotional or physical vibration. A fact can be relevant without having any resonance. For example, the price of milk is relevant to your budget, but it likely has no emotional resonance for you unless you have a deep personal history with dairy farming.

Resonance vs. Reverberation
In acoustics, people often confuse these two. Reverberation is the persistence of sound after it is produced (like an echo in a cave). Resonance is the reinforcement of sound by synchronous vibration. Resonance makes a sound richer; reverberation makes it last longer.

Incorrect: The news was resonance to the current situation. (Should be: The news had resonance or was relevant).

Another common mistake is using 'resonance' as a verb. While 'resonate' is the verb form, 'resonance' is strictly a noun. You cannot say 'The story resonances with me.' You must say 'The story resonates with me' or 'The story has resonance for me.' Mixing up the parts of speech is a common slip for learners. Additionally, be careful not to over-use the word in casual conversation. Because it is a C1-level word, using it to describe something simple—like a good sandwich—can sound overly dramatic or pretentious.

Confusing with 'Reasoning'
Because they sound slightly similar, some learners accidentally swap resonance for reasoning. Reasoning is the process of thinking about something logically. Resonance is a feeling or a physical property. They are completely different concepts.

Incorrect: I like the resonating of the drum. (Better: I like the resonance of the drum).

Finally, watch out for the preposition. Usually, an idea has resonance 'with' someone or 'for' someone. It doesn't have resonance 'to' someone. 'The message had resonance with the voters' is the standard phrasing. Using the wrong preposition can make the sentence feel 'off' to a native speaker. Also, remember that resonance is generally a positive or neutral quality. We rarely talk about 'negative resonance' unless we are in a very specific technical field; instead, we might say something 'failed to resonate' or 'clashed'.

Misunderstanding 'Magnetic Resonance'
In a medical context, don't assume resonance means 'radiation'. An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) does not use ionizing radiation like an X-ray does. Confusing these can lead to unnecessary fear in patients.

Correct: The historical resonance of the site was palpable to all the visitors.

The resonance of the bells could be heard across the entire valley.

The author's voice has a unique resonance that sets her apart from her contemporaries.

Because resonance is such a rich word, there are many alternatives depending on whether you are talking about physics, music, or emotions. If you want to emphasize the physical sound, words like 'sonority', 'vibrancy', or 'reverberation' are excellent choices. 'Sonority' specifically refers to a deep, pleasant sound, while 'vibrancy' suggests energy and life. If you are in a technical setting, 'oscillation' might be more precise, though it lacks the 'fullness' implied by resonance.

Resonance vs. Impact
'Impact' is a sudden, forceful effect. 'Resonance' is a lingering, vibrating effect. Use 'impact' for something that changes things immediately, and 'resonance' for something that stays in the mind for a long time.

The sonority of the pipe organ was overwhelming in the small room.

When talking about emotions or ideas, 'evocativeness' is a strong synonym. If a story is evocative, it brings strong images or feelings to mind, much like a resonant story. 'Significance' and 'meaningfulness' are simpler alternatives, but they lack the poetic quality of resonance. 'Pathos' is another related term, though it specifically refers to a quality that evokes pity or sadness, whereas resonance can be joyful, haunting, or simply profound.

Resonance vs. Echo
An 'echo' is a literal repetition of a sound. Metaphorically, an echo is a reminder of something else. Resonance is more about the 'vibration' or 'connection' felt in the present moment.

The evocativeness of her prose made the setting come alive for the readers.

In the context of communication, you might use 'rapport' or 'alignment'. If a speaker has rapport with an audience, they have a good connection. However, resonance describes the *quality* of the message itself, while rapport describes the *relationship* between the people. In branding, 'affinity' is a common substitute; customers have an affinity for a brand that resonates with them. Choosing the right word depends on whether you want to focus on the sound, the feeling, or the logical connection.

Resonance vs. Salience
'Salience' refers to how much something stands out or is noticeable. 'Resonance' refers to how much it connects. A bright red car has high salience, but it might have no resonance for you.

The vibrancy of the colors in the painting gave it a modern feel.

The pathos of the final scene left the entire audience in tears.

The significance of the treaty cannot be overstated for the future of the region.

How Formal Is It?

Formell

""

Neutral

""

Informell

""

Child friendly

""

Umgangssprache

""

Wusstest du?

In the 15th century, the word was almost exclusively used to describe physical echoes in caves or large buildings before it became a metaphor for emotions.

Aussprachehilfe

UK /ˈrez.ən.əns/
US /ˈrez.ən.əns/
The primary stress is on the first syllable: REZ-o-nance.
Reimt sich auf
governance sustenance provenance maintenance countenance appurtenance dissonance consonance
Häufige Fehler
  • Pronouncing the 's' as a sharp 's' instead of a 'z' sound (it should be /rez/).
  • Over-emphasizing the middle 'o' (it should be a very quick schwa /ə/).
  • Confusing the ending with '-ants' (it should be a soft '-uns' sound).
  • Putting the stress on the second syllable (re-ZON-ance is incorrect).
  • Forgetting the middle 'n' sound entirely.

Schwierigkeitsgrad

Lesen 4/5

Requires understanding of abstract metaphors and technical contexts.

Schreiben 5/5

Difficult to use naturally without sounding overly formal or using the wrong preposition.

Sprechen 4/5

Pronunciation is tricky due to the 'z' sound and schwa.

Hören 3/5

Easily recognized in medical or musical contexts.

Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest

Voraussetzungen

sound vibration echo impact meaning

Als Nächstes lernen

reverberation dissonance evocative profound amplitude

Fortgeschritten

ontological intertextuality oscillation sonority sympathetic vibration

Wichtige Grammatik

Noun vs. Verb

Use 'resonance' as a noun (The resonance was deep) and 'resonate' as a verb (The story resonates with me).

Preposition Choice

Use 'with' or 'for' after resonance (Resonance with the audience / Resonance for the reader).

Adjective Placement

Adjectives usually come before: 'emotional resonance', 'deep resonance'.

Uncountable Abstract

When talking about feelings, don't say 'many resonances'; say 'much resonance' or 'a lot of resonance'.

Countable Technical

In physics, it is okay to say 'The system has multiple resonances at different frequencies'.

Beispiele nach Niveau

1

The big bell has a loud resonance.

Le gros bourdon a une forte résonance.

Noun used as the object of the sentence.

2

I like the resonance of the drum.

J'aime la résonance du tambour.

Used with the preposition 'of'.

3

The room has a lot of resonance.

La pièce a beaucoup de résonance.

Uncountable noun here.

4

His voice has a deep resonance.

Sa voix a une résonance profonde.

Adjective 'deep' modifies the noun.

5

The piano has a sweet resonance.

Le piano a une douce résonance.

Adjective 'sweet' describes the quality.

6

Can you hear the resonance?

Peux-tu entendre la résonance ?

Simple question structure.

7

The guitar has no resonance.

La guitare n'a pas de résonance.

Negative sentence with 'no'.

8

The resonance lasts a long time.

La résonance dure longtemps.

Subject of the verb 'lasts'.

1

The singer's voice had a rich resonance.

La voix du chanteur avait une riche résonance.

Possessive 'singer's' used with the noun.

2

The hall was built for good resonance.

La salle a été construite pour une bonne résonance.

Preposition 'for' indicates purpose.

3

The story has a personal resonance for me.

L'histoire a une résonance personnelle pour moi.

Metaphorical use for feelings.

4

The resonance of the violin was beautiful.

La résonance du violon était magnifique.

Focus on the quality of the instrument.

5

The drums gave the music more resonance.

Les tambours donnaient plus de résonance à la musique.

Direct object in a past tense sentence.

6

The hollow box creates resonance.

La boîte creuse crée de la résonance.

Simple present tense for a fact.

7

The resonance made the floor shake.

La résonance a fait trembler le sol.

Cause and effect structure.

8

I felt the resonance in my chest.

J'ai ressenti la résonance dans ma poitrine.

Describing a physical sensation.

1

The film's message had a deep resonance with the audience.

Le message du film a eu une profonde résonance auprès du public.

Common collocation: 'resonance with'.

2

The old building had a haunting resonance of the past.

Le vieux bâtiment avait une résonance obsédante du passé.

Using 'resonance of' to describe an atmosphere.

3

Her words found resonance among the young protesters.

Ses paroles ont trouvé un écho parmi les jeunes manifestants.

Verb 'found' often pairs with resonance.

4

The acoustic resonance in the cathedral is amazing.

La résonance acoustique dans la cathédrale est incroyable.

Specific technical adjective 'acoustic'.

5

The book lacks emotional resonance for some readers.

Le livre manque de résonance émotionnelle pour certains lecteurs.

Negative use with the verb 'lacks'.

6

The doctor ordered a magnetic resonance scan.

Le médecin a ordonné un examen par résonance magnétique.

Compound noun: 'magnetic resonance scan'.

7

The resonance of the cello is perfect for this piece.

La résonance du violoncelle est parfaite pour ce morceau.

Subject of the sentence.

8

The poem has a timeless resonance that people still love.

Le poème a une résonance intemporelle que les gens aiment toujours.

Adjective 'timeless' adds depth.

1

The candidate's speech failed to find any resonance with the voters.

Le discours du candidat n'a trouvé aucun écho auprès des électeurs.

Phrase: 'fail to find resonance'.

2

Engineers must account for the resonance of the bridge during high winds.

Les ingénieurs doivent tenir compte de la résonance du pont lors de vents violents.

Technical use in engineering context.

3

The cultural resonance of the festival attracts thousands of tourists.

La résonance culturelle du festival attire des milliers de touristes.

Abstract noun phrase as a subject.

4

There is a clear resonance between the two different scientific theories.

Il y a une résonance claire entre les deux théories scientifiques différentes.

Using 'between' to show similarity.

5

The singer uses her chest resonance to produce a powerful sound.

La chanteuse utilise sa résonance de poitrine pour produire un son puissant.

Technical musical term 'chest resonance'.

6

The discovery of the artifact has a historical resonance for the local tribe.

La découverte de l'artéfact a une résonance historique pour la tribu locale.

Focus on significance and connection.

7

The marketing campaign achieved high brand resonance with teenagers.

La campagne de marketing a atteint une forte résonance de marque auprès des adolescents.

Business term: 'brand resonance'.

8

The resonance of the strings can be adjusted by changing the bridge.

La résonance des cordes peut être ajustée en changeant le chevalet.

Passive voice construction.

1

The novel's exploration of identity has a profound resonance in a globalized world.

L'exploration de l'identité dans le roman a une profonde résonance dans un monde globalisé.

Sophisticated abstract subject and context.

2

The architect carefully considered the acoustic resonance of the materials.

L'architecte a soigneusement examiné la résonance acoustique des matériaux.

Focus on professional decision-making.

3

The term 'freedom' carries a heavy emotional resonance in many cultures.

Le terme « liberté » porte une lourde résonance émotionnelle dans de nombreuses cultures.

Verb 'carries' used with resonance.

4

The experiment demonstrated the resonance of the atoms at a specific frequency.

L'expérience a démontré la résonance des atomes à une fréquence spécifique.

Precise scientific description.

5

The play's themes of betrayal and redemption have a universal resonance.

Les thèmes de la trahison et de la rédemption de la pièce ont une résonance universelle.

Adjective 'universal' implies broad appeal.

6

The haunting resonance of the empty house made him feel uneasy.

La résonance obsédante de la maison vide le mettait mal à l'aise.

Gerund 'haunting' as an adjective.

7

There is a strange resonance between his early paintings and his late sculptures.

Il y a une étrange résonance entre ses premières peintures et ses dernières sculptures.

Comparing different artistic periods.

8

The speech was criticized for its lack of resonance with the current economic reality.

Le discours a été critiqué pour son manque de résonance avec la réalité économique actuelle.

Passive voice with a complex prepositional phrase.

1

The philosophical treatise explores the ontological resonance of being in time.

Le traité philosophique explore la résonance ontologique de l'être dans le temps.

Highly abstract academic context.

2

The subtle resonances within the symphony require a keen ear to appreciate.

Les résonances subtiles au sein de la symphonie exigent une oreille fine pour être appréciées.

Plural 'resonances' used for multiple layers of sound.

3

The poet's use of archaic language adds a layer of mythic resonance to the work.

L'utilisation par le poète d'un langage archaïque ajoute une couche de résonance mythique à l'œuvre.

Complex noun phrase as the object.

4

The structural integrity was compromised by the unexpected resonance of the vibrations.

L'intégrité structurelle a été compromise par la résonance inattendue des vibrations.

Formal passive construction in engineering.

5

The diplomat's words had a calculated resonance designed to appease both sides.

Les paroles du diplomate avaient une résonance calculée conçue pour apaiser les deux parties.

Adjective 'calculated' implies intentionality.

6

The film achieves a rare resonance by blending hyper-realism with surrealist imagery.

Le film atteint une résonance rare en mélangeant l'hyperréalisme avec l'imagerie surréaliste.

Describing artistic technique.

7

The historical resonance of the site is amplified by the surrounding natural beauty.

La résonance historique du site est amplifiée par la beauté naturelle environnante.

Verb 'amplified' fits the acoustic metaphor.

8

One must consider the psychological resonance of colors when designing a therapeutic space.

Il faut tenir compte de la résonance psychologique des couleurs lors de la conception d'un espace thérapeutique.

Using 'one must' for formal advice.

Häufige Kollokationen

emotional resonance
magnetic resonance
cultural resonance
acoustic resonance
find resonance
deep resonance
historical resonance
political resonance
vocal resonance
universal resonance

Häufige Phrasen

strike a resonance

— To trigger a feeling of connection or agreement in someone.

Her speech struck a resonance with the younger generation.

lack of resonance

— When something fails to connect or feel important.

The new policy suffered from a lack of resonance among the staff.

tonal resonance

— The specific quality of a sound's vibration.

The tonal resonance of the antique piano was unmatched.

symbolic resonance

— When an object represents a deeper meaning or history.

The crown carried a heavy symbolic resonance for the citizens.

natural resonance

— The frequency at which an object naturally vibrates.

The wind hit the building's natural resonance, causing it to sway.

profound resonance

— A very deep and significant emotional impact.

The tragedy had a profound resonance throughout the country.

find little resonance

— To be ignored or not understood by others.

His radical theories found little resonance in the scientific community.

haunting resonance

— A lingering feeling that is slightly scary or sad.

The ruins had a haunting resonance of a lost civilization.

vibrate with resonance

— To be full of deep sound or strong emotion.

The room seemed to vibrate with the resonance of the organ.

personal resonance

— A connection that is specific to one individual's life.

That song has a lot of personal resonance for me because of my mother.

Wird oft verwechselt mit

resonance vs relevance

Relevance is about logic and connection; resonance is about depth and emotional vibration.

resonance vs reverberation

Reverberation is the echo in a room; resonance is the richness of the sound itself.

resonance vs reasoning

Reasoning is a logical process; resonance is a quality of sound or feeling.

Redewendungen & Ausdrücke

"on the same wavelength"

— Thinking in a similar way or having a natural resonance with someone.

We really hit it off; we were on the same wavelength from the start.

Informal
"ring a bell"

— To sound familiar, often triggering a slight resonance of memory.

That name rings a bell, but I can't remember where I heard it.

Informal
"strike a chord"

— To cause someone to feel sympathy, emotion, or enthusiasm.

The candidate's focus on education struck a chord with parents.

Neutral
"echo in one's mind"

— To be remembered or thought about repeatedly, like a mental resonance.

Her final words continued to echo in his mind for days.

Literary
"in tune with"

— Being in harmony or resonance with someone's feelings or a situation.

He is very in tune with the needs of his employees.

Neutral
"music to one's ears"

— Information that is very pleasing to hear, creating a positive resonance.

Hearing that the project was approved was music to my ears.

Informal
"a hollow ring"

— When something sounds insincere or lacks resonance/truth.

His apologies had a hollow ring to them.

Neutral
"vibrate with energy"

— To be full of excitement or a strong 'vibe'.

The stadium was vibrating with energy before the game started.

Informal
"deep-seated"

— Firmly established and having a deep resonance in one's character.

She has a deep-seated belief in social justice.

Formal
"leave a mark"

— To have a lasting resonance or impact on something or someone.

The teacher's kindness left a mark on all her students.

Neutral

Leicht verwechselbar

resonance vs Resonate

It is the verb form of the same concept.

Resonance is the 'thing' (noun), while resonate is the 'action' (verb). You feel resonance; a story resonates.

The resonance of the story was clear; it resonated with everyone.

resonance vs Consonance

Both relate to harmony and sound.

Consonance is the agreement or compatibility between things (often sounds). Resonance is the amplification or depth of a sound/idea.

The consonance of the chords created a beautiful resonance.

resonance vs Dissonance

It is the opposite of resonance/harmony.

Dissonance is a lack of harmony or a clash. Resonance is a reinforcement or depth.

The dissonance of the conflicting reports destroyed the resonance of the message.

resonance vs Sonority

Both describe rich sounds.

Sonority is the quality of being resonant. Resonance is the physical or metaphorical phenomenon itself.

The sonority of his voice gave it a great resonance.

resonance vs Echo

Both involve repeating or lingering sounds.

An echo is a distinct repetition. Resonance is a continuous vibration that enriches the original sound.

The echo in the cave was sharp, but the resonance of the chant was deep.

Satzmuster

B1

The [noun] has a [adjective] resonance.

The bell has a deep resonance.

B2

The [idea/story] found resonance with [group].

The movie found resonance with teenagers.

B2

There is a [adjective] resonance between [A] and [B].

There is a clear resonance between his words and his actions.

C1

[Noun] carries a heavy [adjective] resonance.

The flag carries a heavy symbolic resonance.

C1

The [noun] lacks [adjective] resonance.

The campaign lacks emotional resonance.

C2

To appreciate the [adjective] resonances of [work]...

To appreciate the subtle resonances of the poem, one must read it aloud.

C2

The [noun] is amplified by the [adjective] resonance of [context].

The tragedy is amplified by the historical resonance of the location.

Technical

The [object] reached its [adjective] resonance frequency.

The glass reached its natural resonance frequency and shattered.

Wortfamilie

Substantive

Verben

Adjektive

Verwandt

So verwendest du es

frequency

Common in specialized fields (music, science, medicine) and high-level journalism.

Häufige Fehler
  • Using 'resonance' as a verb. The story resonates with me.

    Resonance is a noun. You need the verb 'resonate' for actions.

  • Confusing 'resonance' with 'relevance'. The topic is relevant to the class, but the story had resonance for the students.

    Relevance is about logic; resonance is about emotional or physical depth.

  • Pronouncing it with a sharp 's'. /ˈrez.ən.əns/

    The 's' should sound like a 'z'.

  • Saying 'resonance to' someone. The message had resonance with the voters.

    The standard preposition is 'with' or 'for'.

  • Using it for very small, unimportant things. The sandwich was delicious.

    Using 'resonance' for a sandwich sounds pretentious and strange unless the sandwich has deep historical meaning.

Tipps

Elevate Your Writing

Instead of saying 'The story was very moving,' try 'The story had a profound emotional resonance.' It sounds more professional and precise.

Watch Your Prepositions

Remember: Resonance *with* an audience, resonance *for* a person, or resonance *between* two things. Avoid saying 'resonance to'.

MRI Knowledge

If you are in a hospital, 'resonance' refers to the MRI machine. It’s helpful to know this so you don't get confused by technical medical talk.

Instrument Quality

When buying a musical instrument, 'resonance' is one of the most important things to look for. It’s what makes an instrument sound expensive and high-quality.

The 'Z' Sound

Always pronounce the 's' in resonance as a /z/. Practice saying 'RE-ZON-ANCE' to make sure you sound like a native speaker.

Synonym Choice

Use 'reverberation' for physical spaces (like a gym) and 'resonance' for the quality of the sound or the emotional feeling.

Brand Strategy

If you work in marketing, focus on 'brand resonance.' It is the highest level of customer loyalty where the brand becomes part of the customer's identity.

Thematic Analysis

When writing an essay about a book, look for 'thematic resonance'—how the book's themes relate to real-world issues.

Bridge Safety

Resonance is why soldiers are often told to 'break step' (not walk in rhythm) when crossing a bridge. If they walk in rhythm, they might hit the bridge's resonance frequency and break it!

The 'Vibration' Rule

If you can imagine something vibrating (even metaphorically), 'resonance' is likely a good word to use.

Einprägen

Eselsbrücke

Think of a 'REal SON' (resonance) whose voice is so deep it makes the whole house shake. RE-SON-ANCE.

Visuelle Assoziation

Imagine a large, golden bell being struck. See the invisible waves of sound vibrating out and making everything else hum along.

Word Web

Sound Vibration Emotion Connection MRI Music Impact Harmony

Herausforderung

Try to use 'resonance' to describe your favorite movie in three sentences without using the word 'good' or 'like'.

Wortherkunft

Derived from the Latin 'resonantia', meaning 'echo', from the verb 'resonare' (to resound).

Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: The physical act of a sound echoing or being sent back.

Italic -> Romance -> English (via Middle French 'résonance').

Kultureller Kontext

Generally a positive or neutral word; no specific cultural taboos associated with it.

Commonly used in 'The New Yorker' style intellectual writing and high-level political analysis.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) - A staple of modern medicine. The Tacoma Narrows Bridge - A famous example of destructive mechanical resonance. Literary criticism of 'The Great Gatsby' often focuses on its 'cultural resonance'.

Im Alltag üben

Kontexte aus dem Alltag

Music Performance

  • rich vocal resonance
  • instrumental resonance
  • acoustic properties
  • full-bodied sound

Medical Imaging

  • MRI scan
  • magnetic field
  • radio frequency
  • imaging results

Literary Analysis

  • thematic resonance
  • symbolic depth
  • evocative imagery
  • emotional impact

Engineering

  • natural frequency
  • vibration control
  • structural integrity
  • dampening effects

Political Campaigning

  • message resonance
  • voter alignment
  • striking a chord
  • public sentiment

Gesprächseinstiege

"Does the music you listen to have a specific emotional resonance for you?"

"Have you ever felt the physical resonance of a loud concert in your body?"

"What kind of stories have the most resonance in your culture today?"

"Do you think political leaders today lack resonance with the younger generation?"

"Have you ever had a magnetic resonance scan at a hospital?"

Tagebuch-Impulse

Describe a memory that has a haunting resonance for you. Why does it stay in your mind?

Write about a book or film that had a profound resonance with your personal life.

Explain how the resonance of a specific place (like a forest or a church) makes you feel.

Reflect on a time when your ideas failed to find resonance with others. What did you learn?

Discuss the importance of cultural resonance in modern advertising.

Häufig gestellte Fragen

10 Fragen

It is usually positive or neutral. It implies depth, richness, and connection. However, in engineering, 'mechanical resonance' can be negative if it causes a bridge or building to shake too much and break.

No, that is incorrect. 'Resonance' is a noun. You should say 'This movie resonates with me' (verb) or 'This movie has resonance for me' (noun).

Commonly known as an MRI, it is a medical test that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body by making atoms 'resonate'.

An echo is a sound that hits a wall and comes back to you. Resonance is when a sound makes something else vibrate, making the sound louder, deeper, and richer.

You can use it to describe how well a brand or marketing message connects with customers. For example: 'Our new ad campaign has great resonance with our target audience'.

Usually, we say a person's *voice* or *message* has resonance. We don't typically say 'He is a resonance,' but we might say 'There is a resonance between us,' meaning we are on the same wavelength.

Yes, very much so. It is used in physics, chemistry, and engineering to describe how systems respond to vibrations at specific frequencies.

Deep, rich, haunting, emotional, cultural, historical, powerful, and profound are all very common.

It is common in professional, academic, and artistic circles. In very casual daily conversation, people might use simpler words like 'vibe' or 'impact', but 'resonance' is used when people want to be more descriptive.

It is the way a singer or speaker uses their throat, mouth, and nose to make their voice sound louder and richer without using more air.

Teste dich selbst 200 Fragen

writing

Write a sentence using 'emotional resonance' to describe your favorite book.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Explain the difference between resonance and an echo in two sentences.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe the sound of a large bell using the word 'resonance'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'resonance' in a sentence about a political speech.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a formal sentence about 'brand resonance' for a marketing report.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe a place that has 'historical resonance' for you.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence using 'vocal resonance' to describe a singer.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Explain why a bridge might collapse due to resonance.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use the phrase 'lack of resonance' in a sentence about a movie.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about 'magnetic resonance imaging'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe a 'haunting resonance' you once experienced.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'resonance' to compare two different things.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence for a child explaining resonance.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'profound resonance' in a sentence about a piece of music.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about 'cultural resonance' and a traditional holiday.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'resonance' in a sentence about a scientific experiment.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about 'symbolic resonance' in literature.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Describe a person's voice using 'resonance'.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Use 'resonance' in a sentence about a memory.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
writing

Write a sentence about 'universal resonance' in art.

Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe a song that has a lot of resonance for you and explain why.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain the concept of 'brand resonance' as if you were talking to a business client.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Discuss a time when you felt the physical resonance of a sound.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How can a politician ensure their message has resonance with the public?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Why is resonance important in the design of a concert hall?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Talk about a book or movie that you felt had 'universal resonance'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain what an MRI is using the word 'resonance'.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

What are the dangers of resonance in engineering?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe a person you know who has a very resonant voice.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How does 'historical resonance' affect the way we view old monuments?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Discuss the difference between resonance and relevance in your own words.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Why do some stories lose their resonance over time?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How can a singer improve their vocal resonance?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

What kind of symbols have the most resonance in your country?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Describe a 'haunting' experience using the word resonance.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Why is 'resonance' a better word than 'loudness' in music?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Explain the term 'orbital resonance' in astronomy (if you know it).

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

How do you feel when an idea 'resonates' with you?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Can a piece of technology have resonance?

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
speaking

Practice saying 'resonance' three times with the correct /z/ sound.

Read this aloud:

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'The cello's resonance was the highlight of the concert.' What was the best part of the concert?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'The message failed to find resonance with the younger generation.' Did the young people like the message?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'We need to schedule an MRI to look at your shoulder.' What does MRI stand for?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'The bridge's resonance frequency was a major concern for the engineers.' What were the engineers worried about?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'Her poetry has a haunting resonance that lingers in the mind.' How does the poetry affect the listener?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'The brand achieved high resonance by focusing on sustainability.' How did the brand connect with people?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'The singer's vocal resonance was improved through years of training.' How did the singer get a better sound?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'There is a clear resonance between the two different cultures.' What is the speaker saying about the cultures?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'The hollow drum created a powerful resonance.' Why was the sound powerful?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'The term carries a heavy historical resonance in this country.' Is the term important to the country's history?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'The lack of resonance in the speech was disappointing.' Was the speech successful?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'The architect used wood to enhance the hall's resonance.' What material was used?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'The story's universal resonance made it a global bestseller.' Where was the book popular?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'The resonance of the bell signaled the start of the ceremony.' What did the bell sound mean?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
listening

Listen to this sentence: 'The experiment confirmed the resonance of the atoms.' What did the experiment do?

Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:
Richtig! Nicht ganz. Richtige Antwort:

/ 200 correct

Perfect score!

War das hilfreich?
Noch keine Kommentare. Sei der Erste, der seine Gedanken teilt!