© 2026 Sloth Lingo. Learn easy. Lounge wisely.

marcato

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /mɑːrˈkɑːtoʊ/

KK: /mɑrˈkɑːtoʊ/

adjective
Definition

Describing a musical passage that is played with a strong emphasis or accent.


Example

The pianist played the piece with a marcato style, making each note stand out.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that new song by the band?
Sloth B
Yeah, I love how they use that marcato style in it.
Sloth A
It really adds a unique flavor to the music, doesn't it?
Sloth B
Absolutely! The marcato accents make it so much more exciting.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
accented
emphatic
stressed
Antonyms
soft
gentle
subdued
adverb
Definition

In music, this term means to play a note or passage with strong emphasis or accent.


Example

The musician played the piece marcato to highlight the dramatic moments.


Conversation
Sloth A
I heard you were practicing that new piece on the piano.
Sloth B
Yeah, it's challenging but fun to play.
Sloth A
I think you should play it marcato for more emphasis.
Sloth B
noun
Definition

A musical term indicating that a passage should be played with emphasis or force.


Example

The conductor asked the orchestra to play the section marcato to highlight the dramatic effect.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that new piece they played at the concert last night?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was incredible! I loved the marcato sections.
Sloth A
Right? The way they emphasized those notes was so powerful.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

**Marcato** → It originates from the Italian word 'marcato', meaning marked or accented. The term is derived from the Latin 'marcare', meaning to mark. In music, 'marcato' indicates a note or passage that is played with emphasis or a strong accent.

Memory Tip

Think of 'marking' something to emphasize it — that's why 'marcato' means to play with emphasis.

Visually Confused Words
macao
demarcator
mercator
mercapto
marathon
maragato
marabuto
Is this page helpful?
Good idea! It will definitely make the melody stand out.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
accented
emphatic
marked
Antonyms
softly
gently
quietly
Absolutely, it really brought the whole piece to life!

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
accent
emphasis
stress
Antonyms
softness
subtlety
faintness