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fingerpicking

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈfɪŋɡərˌpɪkɪŋ/

KK: /ˈfɪŋɡərˌpɪkɪŋ/

noun
Definition

A technique used to play a stringed instrument by plucking the strings with the fingers instead of using a pick.


Example

He mastered fingerpicking to create beautiful melodies on his guitar.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever tried fingerpicking on the guitar?
Sloth B
Yeah, I love how expressive it can be.
Sloth A
I think I need to practice my fingerpicking more often.
Sloth B
Definitely! It really adds a nice touch to the music.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
plucking
strumming
technique
Antonyms
strumming
picking
striking
verb
Definition

A technique of playing a stringed instrument, especially a guitar, by plucking the strings with the fingers instead of using a pick.


Example

He enjoys fingerpicking his guitar to create a soft, melodic sound.


Tense Forms

Past: fingerpicked

Past Participle: fingerpicked


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever tried fingerpicking on the guitar?
Sloth B
No, I usually just strum, but it sounds interesting.
Sloth A
It's a great technique; it really adds depth to the music.
Root Explanation

Fingerpicking → It is formed from "finger" (from Old English "fingra", meaning the digit of the hand) and "picking" (from the verb "pick", meaning to pluck or select). The word describes the technique of playing a stringed instrument by plucking the strings with the fingers rather than using a pick or plectrum.

Memory Tip

Think of using your 'fingers' to 'pluck' or 'select' the strings of an instrument — that's what fingerpicking means.

Visually Confused Words
finicking
Is this page helpful?
Sloth B
I might give it a shot — it sounds like a fun challenge!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pluck
strum
pick
Antonyms
strum
thump
bang