Derived from Italian, 'sotto' (pronounced SO-toh) is an adverb and adjective signifying 'under', 'below', 'softly', or 'in a low voice'. It indicates a subdued manner of speech, performance, or expression, often employed to create intimacy, secrecy, or dramatic effect. In music, 'sotto voce' denotes a performance executed in a hushed or whispering tone, whilst in visual arts, it implies subtle hints of a secondary theme or undertone, not immediately apparent to the viewer. 'Sotto' implies a delicate interplay of contrast, suggesting a veiled, concealed or almost imperceptible presentation or articulation, often used in scenarios where a contrasting element is present. It frequently refers to a situation where the audience is partially clued into something.
Sotto meaning with examples
- The spy gave his instructions *sotto voce*, ensuring their crucial information was shared in strict confidentiality; only the target could hear. The subdued tone implied a level of danger, adding to the intensity of the situation. They spoke sotto, careful not to alert the other operatives. The plan was almost impossible to execute, with the slightest mistake ending in capture. Everything depended on their discretion.
- In the musical theatre piece, the lover sang of their affection sotto, highlighting the sincerity of their emotion, even when the orchestra swelled. The soft tone, though low, carried throughout the whole theatre. Their rendition of the ballad was far more powerful than most. The singer took advantage of the dynamics of soft and loud, using sotto to great affect.
- Examining the painting, the art critic noticed a dark figure sotto in the corner of the canvas, suggesting a hidden meaning, a sense of foreboding and tension. This subtlety encouraged closer inspection. sotto implied a narrative that was hinted at, and not fully exposed, drawing the audience into an engaging and meaningful relationship with the work.
- During the tense negotiation, the mediator shared a crucial piece of information sotto with only one delegate, influencing the whole agreement. His whispered delivery emphasized the sensitivity. The mediator's intent was to sway the debate and prevent a breakdown in talks; it worked. This move added gravitas to a previously shaky encounter.
- When the teacher gave the exam instructions sotto, the students were forced to pay extra attention; the instruction must have been important. Their use of a hushed tone commanded attention, preventing any disruptions and prompting active listening and engagement. The hushed tone created a palpable sense of anticipation among those in the classroom. They paid attention, for fear of missing something.
Sotto Synonyms
below covertly hush in a low voice quietly secretly softly subdued under understated whisperSotto Antonyms
boisterously emphatically explicitly loudly openly overtlySotto Crossword Answers
4 Letters
VOCE