Word
riff
US/ˈɹɪf/
UK/ɹˈɪf/
Definitions
01music
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Music
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.
“The guitarist played a famous riff that everyone in the crowd recognized immediately.”
“The song is built around a heavy, distorted bass riff that provides a dark foundation for the ethereal vocals.”
02to improvise
C1 · Advanced Informal
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.
“The comedian started to riff on the strange decorations in the hotel lobby.”
“During the interview, the director began to riff on the future of cinema, moving effortlessly from technical specs to philosophical questions.”
Usage
Commonly used in the context of guitar, bass, or piano parts in popular music.
Real-World Examples
“On The Singer in My Band, however, he swaps that for twangy guitar riffs, crumpled Elliott Smith-esque singalongs and a surprising amount of sunshine.” “In the space downstairs, it’s all hyper-referential, full of riffs on Brancusi and Hepworth.” Domains
- 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
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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