Sotto voce Meaning and Definition

Pronunciation

/ˈsɒtəʊ ˈvɒtʃeɪ/ 🔊

Part of Speech

Adverb

Definition

In a very quiet voice, often used to convey secrecy or intimacy.

Examples

• She whispered the secret sotto voce, so no one else could hear.
• The conductor instructed the choir to sing the final verse sotto voce.

Synonyms

• Whisperingly
• Softly

Antonyms

• Loudly
• Boastfully

Additional Information

Sotto voce is an Italian phrase that has been adopted into many languages, including English. It is commonly used in music and theater to indicate that a passage should be played or sung very quietly. In everyday conversation, it can be used to convey secrecy or intimacy. For example, if someone is sharing a confidential piece of information, they might speak sotto voce to avoid being overheard.

The phrase has also been used in literature and poetry to create a sense of atmosphere or mood. For example, a poet might describe a character speaking sotto voce to convey a sense of sadness or vulnerability.

In addition to its literal meaning, sotto voce can also be used figuratively to describe a subtle or understated approach. For example, a politician might be accused of speaking sotto voce on a particular issue, meaning that they are not being explicit or clear in their views.

Etymology

The phrase “sotto voce” comes from the Italian words “sotto,” meaning “under” or “below,” and “voce,” meaning “voice.” It has been used in Italian since the 17th century to describe a soft or quiet voice.

Usage Notes

Sotto voce is typically used as an adverb, and it can be used in a variety of contexts, including music, theater, and everyday conversation. It is often used to create a sense of intimacy or secrecy, and it can be used to convey a range of emotions, from sadness to excitement.

Cultural References

Sotto voce has been used in a variety of cultural contexts, including music, literature, and film. For example, the phrase is often used in opera to describe a quiet or intimate passage. It has also been used in literature to create a sense of atmosphere or mood.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

Sotto voce is often used in idiomatic expressions, such as “speak sotto voce” or “sing sotto voce.” These expressions typically convey the idea of speaking or singing in a quiet or intimate voice.

Related Words or Phrases

Other words or phrases that are related to sotto voce include “whisper,” “softly,” and “quietly.” These words all convey the idea of speaking or singing in a quiet or understated way.

Collocations

Sotto voce often collocates with words such as “whisper,” “softly,” and “quietly.” It can also collocate with words such as “confidential” or “intimate” to convey a sense of secrecy or closeness.

Frequency of Use

Sotto voce is a relatively uncommon word in modern language, but it is still widely used in certain contexts, such as music and theater. It is also used in literature and poetry to create a sense of atmosphere or mood.

Common Misspellings

Common misspellings of sotto voce include “sotto vocce,” “sota voce,” and “sotto voi.” These misspellings are often due to the word’s Italian origin and the difficulty of pronouncing the correct sequence of letters.