What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
marimba
Example
The marimba player performed a beautiful solo during the concert. [marimba: noun]
Example
She learned how to play the marimba in her high school band. [marimba: noun]
vibraphone
Example
The vibraphone added a unique sound to the jazz band's performance. [vibraphone: noun]
Example
He practiced playing the vibraphone for hours every day to prepare for the concert. [vibraphone: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Vibraphone is more commonly used than marimba in popular music genres such as jazz and pop. Marimba is more commonly used in classical and folk music genres.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between marimba and vibraphone?
Both marimba and vibraphone are formal terms used in music contexts. However, marimba may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with classical music.