riff

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riff

A saxophonist plays a catchy riff during a jazz performance.

Definition

  1. Noun:

    • A short, repeated musical phrase, especially in jazz or rock music: A "riff" is a distinctive, often catchy sequence of notes, chords, or rhythms that is repeated, forming a core part of a musical piece's structure or improvisation.
    • A particular, often clever or critical, take or commentary on a subject: In a broader, informal sense, a "riff" can refer to a monologue or series of comments on a particular theme, delivered with style or humor.

  2. Verb:

    • To play a short, repeated musical phrase: The act of performing a riff on a musical instrument.
    • To browse or look through something quickly or casually: To flip through pages, often without deep concentration.
    • To improvise or speak at length on a particular theme in a lively, spontaneous manner: To deliver a verbal commentary or performance in a style reminiscent of a musical riff.
Examples of Usage

  • Noun:

    • The guitarist played a memorable riff that became the song's signature.
    • The comedian went on a hilarious riff about modern technology.

  • Verb:

    • He can riff on the bass for hours.
    • She riffed through the magazine while waiting.
    • The speaker riffed on the topic of innovation, captivating the audience.
Advanced Usage

  • "to go off on a riff": to start improvising or speaking extensively and energetically on a subject.

    • During the interview, the musician went off on a riff about his creative influences.

  • "riff on something": to use something as a basis for improvisation or variation.

    • The band loves to riff on classic blues progressions.
Variants and Related Words
  • Riffing (gerund/noun): The act of playing or speaking in a riff-like, improvisational manner.
    • His constant riffing during practice generates great ideas.
Synonyms
  • Noun: Lick (musical phrase), phrase, motif, theme.
  • Verb (musical): Improvise, jam.
  • Verb (browsing): Flip, skim, leaf, thumb.
Related Phrasal Verbs/Constructions
  • Riff off (of) something/someone: To creatively improvise based on an existing idea or another person's work.
    • The new artist riffed off the classic melody to create something fresh.
Related Idioms
  • "Trade riffs": When musicians take turns playing improvised phrases, especially in a jazz or jam session context.
    • The saxophonist and guitarist traded riffs for several thrilling minutes.
riff

A saxophonist plays a catchy riff during a jazz performance.

Noun
  1. a jazz ostinato; usually provides a background for a solo improvisation
  2. a Berber living in northern Morocco
Verb
  1. play riffs
  2. look through a book or other written material
    • He thumbed through the report
    • She leafed through the volume

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