Riffs: meaning, definitions and examples

Used mainly in rock and blues music to describe a short, repeated musical phrase, typically played by guitars. Riffs are often catchy and memorable.

• The guitarist played an unforgettable riff that set the tone for the entire song

Commonly used in the context of guitar music, particularly in rock, blues, and jazz. Licks are short solos or phrases that showcase skill and are often improvised.

• He played an impressive lick during the solo that left the audience in awe

Can be used broadly in both music and language. In music, a phrase is a small section of a melody, much like a sentence in language. It's not genre-specific and is a fundamental concept in musical structure.

• The song's opening phrase was simple yet captivating

Typically used in classical music, literature, and visual arts to refer to a recurring musical or thematic element that has symbolic or structural importance.

• The composer used a recurring motif to symbolize the main character's journey

Typically used in music, especially in rock and jazz, to describe a short, repeated musical pattern or phrase played by a guitar or other instrument.

• The guitarist's riffs were the highlight of the song.
• She spent hours perfecting the riffs for their new track.

This is broader and can be used in various contexts, from music and theater to problem-solving in daily life, meaning to create or perform spontaneously without preparation.

• The actor had to improvise a line when he forgot the script.
• During the performance, the band members decided to improvise a new melody.

Commonly used in music, especially in informal settings, where musicians play music together spontaneously.

• We often jam together after practice.
• They had a jam session in the garage last night.

Can refer to experimenting or having fun with something without a serious approach, not limited to music.

• She likes to play around with different makeup looks.
• The kids were playing around with the new toy.