The noun chord is a musical term (two or more notes sounded together); chord also refers to an emotion or disposition ("a responsive chord").

The noun cord refers to a rope or a bond, an insulated electrical cable, or an anatomical structure ("vocal cords").

Examples:

• The movie begins with with the first, jangling chord from "A Hard Day's Night."
• “No cord or cable can draw so forcibly, or bind so fast, as love can do with a single thread.” (Robert Burton)

Practice:

(a) A wireless mouse operates without a _____ by transmitting radio frequency signals.

(b) Jackson sat down at the grand piano and played a major _____.

Answers to Practice Exercises

Glossary of Usage: Index of Commonly Confused Words