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pizzicato

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //ˌpɪzɪˈkɑːtoʊ//

KK: /ˌpɪtsɪˈkɑːtoʊ/

adjective
Definition

Describing a style of playing string instruments where the strings are plucked instead of bowed.


Example

The musician used a pizzicato technique to create a light and playful sound in the piece.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard a piece played with pizzicato style?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's such a unique sound compared to regular bowing.
Sloth A
I love how it gives the music a playful vibe.
Sloth B
Totally! It makes the strings feel so lively.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
plucked
strummed
picked
Antonyms
bowed
smooth
sustained
adverb
Definition

A musical term that describes a technique where strings are plucked with the fingers instead of using a bow.


Example

The violinist played the piece pizzicato, creating a light and playful sound.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear the way the violinist played that piece?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was amazing how they used pizzicato to create such a unique sound.
Sloth A
I loved that part! It made the music feel so lively.
Sloth B
noun
Definition

A musical term referring to notes played by plucking the strings of an instrument instead of using a bow.


Example

The violinist played the piece with a pizzicato style, creating a unique sound.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that piece with the pizzicato section?
Sloth B
Yeah, it added such a unique touch to the music!
Sloth A
I love how it makes the strings sound so lively.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Pizzicato → It originates from the Italian word 'pizzicare' (meaning to pluck), which is derived from the Latin 'picticare' (meaning to touch or pluck). The term describes a technique in string instrument playing where the strings are plucked with the fingers instead of using a bow.

Memory Tip

Imagine the action of 'plucking' the strings of an instrument — that's what pizzicato means, as it comes from the Italian word for pluck.

Visually Confused Words

No commonly confused words.

Is this page helpful?
Exactly! I wish I could play like that.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
plucked
Antonyms
Totally, it really brings the performance to life.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
plucking
strumming
tapping
Antonyms
bowing
striking
pressing