imperfect rhyme

"Imperfect rhyme" is often employed in poetry and songwriting to achieve a more nuanced sound pattern and avoid the predictability of perfect rhymes.

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Definition

C1Poetry

(technical, literary)A type of rhyme where the sounds are similar but not identical, often involving similar consonants or vowels.

Example

  • In the poem, the words 'stone' and 'gone' create an imperfect rhyme.
  • The use of imperfect rhyme can add a layer of complexity to a verse.

B2Songwriting

(informal, artistic)A rhyme where the ending sounds are close but not exactly the same, providing flexibility in lyrics.

Example

  • The songwriter used imperfect rhyme to make the lyrics feel more natural.
  • Imperfect rhymes help avoid clichés and keep the song fresh.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "imperfect rhyme":

half rhymeperfect rhymeend rhymerhyme outrhyme uprhyme off