What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
accelerating
Example
The car was accelerating quickly as it merged onto the highway. [accelerating: verb]
Example
The company's growth has been accelerating in recent years. [accelerating: present participle]
quickening
Example
The runner's heart was quickening as she approached the finish line. [quickening: present participle]
Example
The pace of the music began quickening, causing the dancers to move faster. [quickening: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Accelerating is more commonly used than quickening in scientific or technical contexts. However, quickening is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of everyday contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between accelerating and quickening?
Accelerating is generally considered more formal than quickening, which is often used in casual or conversational contexts.
