What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
barking
Example
The dog started barking loudly when the mailman approached. [barking: verb]
Example
I could hear the barking of the neighbor's dog throughout the night. [barking: noun]
howling
Example
The wolves were howling at the full moon. [howling: verb]
Example
The howling of the wind made the night feel even more eerie. [howling: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Barking is more commonly used than howling in everyday language, as it is a behavior frequently observed in domesticated dogs. Howling, on the other hand, is less common and is more often associated with wild animals in natural environments.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between barking and howling?
Both barking and howling are generally considered informal and casual terms, suitable for everyday conversations or informal writing.
