What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
riff
Example
The guitarist played a killer riff during the chorus. [riff: noun]
Example
He riffed on his guitar for hours, creating new melodies and experimenting with different sounds. [riffed: verb]
lick
Example
The guitarist played a blistering lick during the solo. [lick: noun]
Example
She can really lick that guitar, playing fast and complex solos with ease. [licking: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Riff is more commonly used than lick in everyday language, especially in the context of rock and metal music. Lick is more specific to blues and jazz music and may not be as familiar to non-musicians.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between riff and lick?
Both riff and lick are informal terms used primarily in the context of music. However, riff may be slightly more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while lick is more informal and may not be appropriate in formal settings.
