Distinguishing Refrain & Chorus

The primary distinction between a refrain and a chorus is that a refrain involves a repeated line or lines in a song, typically at the end of each verse, while a chorus is a part of a song that is repeated after each verse and is accompanied by a melodic buildup. Refrains and choruses are similar, but not identical. Typically, a refrain is shorter than a chorus and includes only one or two lines. It is also worth noting that the title of the song is usually found in the refrain or chorus.

Key Takeaways

  • A refrain is a repeated line or lines in a song, usually at the end of each verse.
  • A chorus is a part of a song that is repeated after each verse and features a melodic buildup.
  • While both refrains and choruses involve repetition, a refrain is typically shorter and does not have the same melodic buildup as a chorus.

What is Refrain?

A refrain is a line or several lines in a poem or song that are repeated, typically at the end of each verse.

Consider the following song by Bob Dylan. In this song, the same two lines appear at the end of each verse.

How many roads

Dmitri Ivanov
Dmitri Ivanovhttps://whats-different.com
Dmitri Ivanov, a writer and managing editor, was educated in Canada and holds a BS in Science. Dmitri loves doing research, writing, and teaching various courses.

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