What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
barking
Example
The dog was barking loudly at the mailman. [barking: verb]
Example
I could hear the barking of dogs in the distance. [barking: noun]
yapping
Example
The little Chihuahua was yapping nonstop at the strangers. [yapping: verb]
Example
I couldn't concentrate with all the yapping coming from the neighbor's dog. [yapping: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Barking is more commonly used than yapping in everyday language since it is a broader term that can be applied to dogs of all sizes. Yapping is more specific and tends to be used when referring to small dogs.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between barking and yapping?
Both barking and yapping are informal words that are commonly used in casual conversations or when talking about dogs in general.