Difference Wiki

Backbeat vs. Offbeat: What's the Difference?

Backbeat and Offbeat Definitions

Backbeat

A sharp rhythmic accent on the second and fourth beats of a measure in 4/4 time, characteristic of rock music.

Offbeat

An unaccented beat in a measure.

Backbeat

(music) The sharp accent on the second and fourth beats of rock music in 4/4 time.

Offbeat

Not conforming to an ordinary type or pattern; unconventional
Offbeat humor.

Backbeat

A loud steady beat
ADVERTISEMENT

Offbeat

(music) The beats not normally accented in a measure.
The congregation clapped along on the offbeat.

Offbeat

(slang) An unconventional person, someone who does not follow the beat, who chooses not to conform.

Offbeat

Unusual; unconventional; not ordinary.
He has such an offbeat sense of humor that hardly anyone finds his jokes amusing.

Offbeat

Informal terms; strikingly unconventional

Trending Comparisons

Popular Comparisons

New Comparisons