riff
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a short, catchy part of a song that is repeated many times.
n.a short, repeated melodic or rhythmic phrase, often serving as the hook or foundation of a track.
Simple“The guitarist played a famous riff that everyone in the crowd recognized immediately.”
In context“The song is built around a heavy, distorted bass riff that provides a dark foundation for the ethereal vocals.”
UsageCommonly used with the verbs 'play', 'write', or 'create'.
- 02 C1 Advanced
v.to talk or perform freely by building on an idea or a theme.
v.to perform or speak in an improvisational manner, typically by expanding upon a specific topic or motif.
Simple“The comedian started to riff on the strange decorations in the hotel lobby.”
In context“During the interview, the director began to riff on the future of cinema, moving effortlessly from technical specs to philosophical questions.”
UsageUsually takes the preposition 'on'.
“In the space downstairs, it’s all hyper-referential, full of riffs on Brancusi and Hepworth.”