What is "syncopation" in music theory?

Syncopation in music theory refers to a technique that involves creating rhythmic interest by placing emphasis on beats or parts of beats that are typically not stressed. This intentional disruption of the regular pattern of strong and weak beats adds complexity and can make the music feel more dynamic and engaging. By accentuating off-beats or weak beats, syncopation creates a sense of surprise and motion, which is a key element in various music styles such as jazz, funk, and many forms of popular music.

The other options relate to different musical concepts. For instance, a series of notes in a major scale defines a specific sequence of pitches rather than rhythmic patterns. A type of musical form describes the structural design of a piece of music, while a style of rhythm-based vocal music pertains to specific genres or traditions of vocal performance. These options do not accurately capture the defining characteristic of syncopation, which is rooted in rhythmic manipulation rather than melodic or structural aspects.