How to Pronounce "a tin ear"
expression
ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈtɪn/ /ˈiɹ/, /ˈɪɹ
uh TIN EER
æɪ/ /tˈɪn/ /ˈiə
uh TIN EE-uh
Definition
If someone has "a tin ear," they cannot easily recognize musical notes, melodies, or rhythms; they have little or no ability to tell if something sounds good musically. Sometimes it is also used for people who do not notice or understand subtle differences in sound.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈeɪ/, /ə/ /ˈtɪn/ /ˈiɹ/, /ˈɪɹ
British English
æɪ/ /tˈɪn/ /ˈiə
Simplified Pronunciation
US
uh TIN EER
UK
uh TIN EE-uh
Listen in Context
He has a tin ear and can't sing in tune.
My brother tries to play guitar, but he has a tin ear.
People say I have a tin ear, but I still love singing.
Honestly, with a tin ear like mine, karaoke night is just for laughs.