What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
portato
Example
The violinist played the melody with a beautiful portato. [portato: noun]
Example
The pianist used a portato technique to create a smooth and flowing sound. [portato: adjective]
articulation
Example
The conductor emphasized the importance of articulation in the orchestra's performance. [articulation: noun]
Example
The flutist worked on her articulation to make each note sound clear and precise. [articulation: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Articulation is more commonly used than portato in everyday language, as it is a broader term that can be applied to various musical styles and techniques.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between portato and articulation?
Both portato and articulation are formal terms used in music terminology, but articulation is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
