What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
repique
Example
The drummer played a repique rhythm during the salsa song. [repique: noun]
Example
I won the game with a repique hand. [repique: adjective]
ruff
Example
She wore a beautiful dress with a ruff collar. [ruff: noun]
Example
He played a ruff card to win the trick. [ruff: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ruff is more commonly used than repique in everyday language, especially when referring to collars and dog sounds. However, repique is more common in Latin American music and card games.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between repique and ruff?
Both repique and ruff can be used in formal and informal contexts, depending on their meaning and usage. However, ruff may be considered more formal when referring to collars worn in historical or ceremonial contexts.