1.
chorus; hook; climax of a song
The most memorable, emotionally intense part of a song, typically the chorus or hook. A term widely used in the Japanese music industry.
A music industry term unique to Japanese. Usually written in katakana. The etymology is debated — one theory connects it to the aesthetic concept of 侘び寂び, where the サビ represents the most refined, essential moment of a song.
Common collocations
- サビの部分: the chorus section
- サビに入る: to go into the chorus
- サビが頭から離れない: the chorus is stuck in my head
- 大サビ: the final/climactic chorus (often the last, most powerful chorus)
Related words
- Aメロ: the A-melody (verse)
- Bメロ: the B-melody (pre-chorus / bridge to chorus)
- 間奏: interlude / instrumental break
Usage
Not to be confused with 錆 (rust), which is a different word. In conversation, context makes the distinction clear.