Definition

1. Adjective:

   • (Music) Marked by short, detached sounds: Describes musical notes that are played or sung in a distinctly separate and disconnected manner, with clear breaks between each sound.
   • Characterized by abrupt, sharp breaks: Used more generally to describe any series of sounds, words, or movements that are delivered in a quick, abrupt, and disconnected sequence.

2. Adverb:

   • In a detached, abrupt manner: Indicates that musical notes should be performed with a shortened duration and clear separation from the following note.

Examples of Usage

• Adjective:
  • The pianist practiced the staccato passage until each note was perfectly crisp.
  • Her speech was staccato, full of short, sharp sentences.
• Adverb:
  • The composer marked the phrase to be played staccato.
  • He spoke staccato, as if each word were a separate bullet point.

Advanced Usage

• Figurative Use: Used to describe non-musical things that have a similar abrupt, disconnected quality.
  • The staccato rhythm of the typewriter keys filled the quiet office.
  • The staccato flashes of lightning illuminated the sky.

Variants and Related Words

• Staccatissimo (adj/adv): A more extreme form of staccato, indicating notes should be played as short as possible.
• Legato: The antonym in music, indicating notes should be played smoothly and connected.

Synonyms

• Detached
• Disconnected
• Abrupt
• Crisp
• Clipped

Related Phrases

• Staccato mark/marking: The musical notation (a dot above or below a note) that indicates it should be played staccato.

Adjective

1. (music) marked by or composed of disconnected parts or sounds; cut short crisply
   • staccato applause
   • a staccato command
   • staccato notes

Adverb

1. separating the notes; in music
   • play this staccato, please