What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
jazz
Example
I love listening to jazz music while I work. [jazz: noun]
Example
The band played a jazz rendition of the classic song. [jazz: adjective]
ragtime
Example
The pianist played a ragtime tune that got everyone tapping their feet. [ragtime: noun]
Example
The band's performance had a ragtime feel to it. [ragtime: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Jazz is more commonly used than ragtime in everyday language and is a more widely recognized genre of music.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between jazz and ragtime?
Both jazz and ragtime can be used in formal and informal contexts, but jazz is more versatile and can be employed in a wider range of settings.