rhizoverbBeta
DictionarysyncopationShifted rhythmic emphasis
noun

syncopation

sing-kuh-PAY-shun/ˌsɪŋkəˈpeɪʃn/

Rhythmic emphasis placed on normally weak beats or between beats.

The rhythm's syncopation places emphasis between the regular pulse markers.

A small music rhythm diagram with emphasis on the offbeat between regular pulse markers.
Etymology
synGreektogether; perhaps thoroughly
+copGreekto cut
+ationLatinaction or process

The cutting root, with syn- perhaps adding “thoroughly,” first connects to shortening a word by leaving out middle sounds. The musical use names an inversion of expected rhythmic emphasis, placing accents on normally weak beats.

In context

Rockwell Music School: In-Home, Online2:23
when you take a weak part of the bar and accent it that's called syncopation
Theory Thursday #55: Triplets, Syncopation

More examples

  • The bass line adds syncopation by stressing the weaker beats.
  • We clap a steady beat while she sings with syncopation.
  • The dancers match their steps to the song's lively syncopations.

Forms

syncopation · syncopations

syncopate verb — To place rhythmic accents on normally weak beats.

syncopated adjective — Having accents on weak beats or between beats.