strike a false note
Seem jarringly wrong
To strike a false note is to say or do something that feels wrong or out of place in context—a jarring element that disrupts an otherwise harmonious situation.
From music, where a false note is one played incorrectly.
His joke struck a false note at the memorial service.
The modern furniture strikes a false note in the Victorian house.
- off-keyWrong pitch, musically
- slipMinor error or misstep
- misstepError in action or judgment
- awkwardnessLack of grace or ease
- inauthenticityLack of genuineness
faux pas · hypocrisy · insincerity · miscommunication · cringe · dissonance · clang · dishonesty · stumble · off the mark · inconsistency · discomfort · tone-deafness · jarring · ring hollow · tin ear · disharmony · tension
strike a false notering true
Seem authentic or credible
hit the mark · fit like a glove · blend in · carry conviction · pass muster
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