Goth vs. Alt — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on January 15, 2024
Goth refers to a subculture inspired by dark aesthetics and music; Alt is a broader term for alternative styles and subcultures.
Difference Between Goth and Alt
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Goth is a term that originates from the Gothic subculture, which emerged in the late 1970s in England. It draws inspiration from Gothic rock, an offshoot of the post-punk genre. Alt, on the other hand, is an abbreviation for "alternative" and can refer to a range of non-mainstream lifestyles, music genres, or fashion styles.
Goth, over the years, has been recognized by its dark, mysterious, and complex aesthetics. It often encompasses a particular type of fashion, music, and worldview. Alt, conversely, can cover a variety of subcultures and styles including, but not limited to, grunge, punk, and indie.
While Goth tends to have a more specific and consistent look and feel - with its emphasis on black clothing, silver jewelry, and makeup - Alt is more fluid, allowing individuals to blend elements from different subcultures. For someone identifying as Goth, there might be a deeper connection to Gothic literature, music, or art. For someone identifying as Alt, it's often about breaking away from the mainstream in whatever way feels right for them.
Both Goth and Alt serve as a means for individuals to express themselves and find a sense of belonging outside of the mainstream. However, where Goth is a specific subculture with its roots, history, and aesthetics, Alt serves as a broader term, encapsulating a myriad of alternative expressions and styles.
Comparison Chart
Origin
Emerged from Gothic rock in the late 1970s in England.
Abbreviation for "alternative"; represents various subcultures.
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Aesthetics
Dark, mysterious, and often romantic.
Fluid; can blend elements from various subcultures.
Music
Gothic rock, darkwave, deathrock.
Can span grunge, punk, indie, and more.
Fashion
Black clothing, silver jewelry, dark makeup.
Diverse; might mix grunge, punk, indie styles, etc.
Representation
Specific subculture with defined aesthetics and history.
Broader term covering multiple non-mainstream expressions.
Compare with Definitions
Goth
A style of music derived from post-punk, known as Gothic rock.
The Cure is a popular band that many associate with the Goth music genre.
Alt
Pertaining to alternative lifestyles or subcultures.
Her Alt fashion sense often combined punk and indie elements.
Goth
A subculture characterized by dark aesthetics and music.
She was deeply influenced by the Goth culture, often wearing dark makeup and listening to darkwave.
Alt
Anything that diverges from the traditional or mainstream.
The gallery showcased Alt art, full of unconventional and groundbreaking pieces.
Goth
Related to the dark and mysterious.
The room had a Goth ambiance, with its dim lighting and black drapes.
Alt
Pitched in the first octave above the treble staff; high.
Goth
A person who is part of the Gothic subculture.
At the concert, there were many Goths wearing their signature black outfits.
Alt
Espousing or reflecting values different from those of the establishment or of mainstream culture. Often used in combination
Alt-rock music.
An alt-weekly newspaper.
Goth
Pertaining to the ancient Germanic tribes.
The history of the Goth tribes is extensive, dating back to the Roman times.
Alt
Existing outside traditional or established institutions or systems. Often used in combination
Alt-fuels.
An alt-lifestyle.
Goth
A member of a Germanic people who invaded the Roman Empire in the early centuries of the Christian era.
Alt
The first octave above the treble staff.
Goth
A style of rock music, noted especially for somber or ethereal tones and lugubrious lyrics.
Alt
A note or tone in the alt octave.
Goth
A performer or follower of this style of music.
Alt
The Alt key.
Goth
(uncountable) A punk-derived subculture of people who predominantly dress in black, associated with mournful music and attitudes.
Philip has been into goth for many years, haven't you dear?
Alt
(music) High pitch, of a voice or instrument; especially, the octave above the top line of the treble stave.
Goth
A style of punk rock influenced by glam rock; gothic rock.
Alt
A state of excitement, a heightened emotional condition.
Goth
(countable) A person who is part of the goth subculture.
We saw a solitary goth hanging out on a ledge by the train station.
Alt
Clipping of altitude
Goth
Relating to goth music or people.
With her black clothes and dyed hair, Melanie looked very goth compared to her classmates.
Alt
An alternate or secondary character.
Goth
One of an ancient Teutonic race, who dwelt between the Elbe and the Vistula in the early part of the Christian era, and who overran and took an important part in subverting the Roman empire.
Alt
(Internet slang) An alternate account.
Goth
One who is rude or uncivilized; a barbarian; a rude, ignorant person.
Alt
(finance) An alternative investment or alternative fund.
Liquid alts
Goth
A crude uncouth ill-bred person lacking culture or refinement
Alt
Synonym of altbier
Goth
One of the Teutonic people who invaded the Roman Empire in the 3rd to 5th centuries
Alt
Clipping of alternate
Alt
Clipping of alternativeespecially as a cultural phenomenon seen as being outside the mainstream of its genre.
Alt medicine
Alt
The higher part of the scale. See Alto.
Alt
Angular distance above the horizon (especially of a celestial object)
Alt
Relating to a genre of music that is non-mainstream.
Alt rock bands like Radiohead changed the music scene in the 90s.
Alt
A descriptor for unconventional choices or perspectives.
His Alt views on education pushed for more experiential learning.
Alt
Abbreviation for "alternate".
The director wanted an Alt take for the scene to have options during editing.
Common Curiosities
What are some examples of Alt music genres?
Examples include grunge, punk, indie, and alternative rock.
Is Gothic rock the only music associated with Goth?
No, there's also darkwave, deathrock, and other sub-genres.
Are there any historical references associated with the term Goth?
Yes, "Goth" also refers to ancient Germanic tribes.
What is "Alt" short for?
It's short for "alternative", referring to non-mainstream styles and subcultures.
What makes someone Alt?
An embrace of non-mainstream lifestyles, fashion, music, or perspectives.
How has the Goth culture evolved over the years?
It has seen various offshoots but generally retains its dark and mysterious aesthetics.
Is the Goth subculture only about aesthetics?
No, it also encompasses music, literature, and a specific worldview.
What is the origin of the term "Goth"?
It originated from the Gothic subculture in England during the late 1970s.
Can someone be both Goth and Alt?
Yes, since "Alt" is a broad term, someone can identify as both.
Can Gothic architecture be related to the Goth subculture?
While both have dark, intricate aesthetics, the architectural style predates the subculture.
Does Alt pertain only to fashion and music?
No, it can refer to art, viewpoints, or any divergence from the mainstream.
Where can I find Alt music?
Many music platforms have "alternative" categories showcasing diverse non-mainstream genres.
What's a key fashion difference between Goth and Alt?
Goth typically emphasizes black clothing and dark makeup, while Alt is diverse and can blend various styles.
Can Goths have colorful fashion choices?
While black is predominant, some Goths incorporate color, especially deep reds, purples, and greens.
Is Alt a modern term?
While the term has gained popularity in recent times, "alternative" cultures have always existed.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
