Breakdance, also known as b-boying or breaking, is a dynamic dance form that emerged in the Bronx, New York City, during the 1970s. It combines elements of hip hop culture and funk music. Breakdance is characterized by its acrobatic moves, such as spins, flips, headspins, and freezes, as well as its use of footwork and body isolations. B-boys and b-girls (female breakdancers) typically perform breakdance in crews or "crews," and competitions called "battles" are common in the breakdance community.
Streetdance, on the other hand, is a broader term used to describe various urban dance styles that originated in the streets and popularized through social dancing and music videos. Streetdance encompasses a wide range of styles, including hip hop dance, popping, locking, krumping, house dance, and more.
Hip hop dance, which emerged alongside breakdance in the Bronx, is characterized by its fluid and rhythmic body movements, often performed to hip hop music. Popping involves controlled, quick bursts of movement to create popping sounds and illusions. Locking is known for its distinctive lock and release movements, often executed to create sharp, angular shapes. Krumping is a powerful, energetic dance form that originated in the African-American community and is characterized by fast and explosive movements, often performed with exaggerated facial expressions. House dance evolved in the late 1970s in Chicago, and it is known for its footwork, intricate stepping patterns, and the use of fluid body movements.
Each of these street dance styles has its unique characteristics and cultural influences, and they have evolved and diversified over the years. While breakdance and streetdance share some common roots in hip hop culture and urban communities, they are distinct dance forms with different styles, techniques, and histories.