Word
underscore
Phoneticsun·der·score, stress on the third syllable
US/ˌəndɝˈskɔɹ/
UK/ˌʌndəskˈɔː/
Definition
n. a short line under a note in music that tells you to play it slightly louder than the notes around it. It is often used to emphasize a specific sound.
n. a short line placed beneath a musical note to indicate a slight increase in volume or intensity. It is a standard marking in various musical notations to highlight specific passages.
Examples
“The composer used an underscore to make the final note stand out.”
“When the choir reached the chorus, the conductor marked the lead singer's line with an underscore to ensure the audience heard the high note.”
“The arranger added an underscore to the final chord of the movement, creating a dramatic swell that signaled the transition to the next section.”
Examples
simple
“The composer used an underscore to make the final note stand out.”
contextual
“When the choir reached the chorus, the conductor marked the lead singer's line with an underscore to ensure the audience heard the high note.”
complex
“The arranger added an underscore to the final chord of the movement, creating a dramatic swell that signaled the transition to the next section.”
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “underscore” in context.
Verb
01. underscore importance
“The recent data underscore the importance of regular exercise for heart health.”
verb + noun
02. underscoring the need
Real-World Examples
“WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus issued a statement underscoring the critical role of vaccination for public health.” “Researchers say the findings underscore the need for a better understanding of TFA pollution and its potential impacts.” Etymology
From under- + score.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Word family
NOUN
ADJECTIVE
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/underscore