What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
auditory
Example
The auditory system is responsible for processing sound waves and sending signals to the brain. [auditory: adjective]
Example
She enjoys attending auditory concerts where she can appreciate the beautiful music. [auditory: noun]
hearing
Example
His hearing was impaired due to years of exposure to loud noises. [hearing: noun]
Example
She enjoys hearing the birds chirping in the morning. [hearing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hearing is more commonly used than auditory in everyday language. Hearing is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while auditory is more specialized and typically used in scientific or technical discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between auditory and hearing?
While auditory is generally more formal, hearing can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Hearing is a more commonly used word in everyday language and is suitable for various levels of formality.
