staccato
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /stəˈkɑːtoʊ/
KK: /stəˈkɑːtoʊ/
adjective
Definition
Describing a style of playing or singing where notes are played or sung in a short and detached manner, creating a sharp and distinct sound.
Example
The musician played the piece with a staccato style, making each note sound crisp and separate.
Conversation
Did you hear that song with the staccato beats?
Yeah, it really made the music stand out!
I love how it adds a unique rhythm to the piece.
Absolutely! It keeps you engaged the whole time.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
abrupt
disconnected
detached
Antonyms
smooth
connected
continuous
noun
Definition
A style of playing or singing where each note is sharply separated from the others, creating a distinct and short sound.
Example
The musician played the piece with a staccato rhythm, making each note stand out.
Conversation
Did you hear that piece played with such a staccato style?
Yeah, it really added a unique feel to the music.
I love how staccato notes can make a song feel more lively.
Root Explanation
Staccato comes from the Italian word 'staccare', meaning to detach or disconnect, which is derived from 'staccato' (meaning detached). The term describes a style of playing or singing where notes are sharply separated or detached from each other.
Memory Tip
Imagine music notes that are 'detached' from each other, which helps you remember that 'staccato' means to play notes in a sharp, separated manner.
Visually Confused Words
saccate
sacaton