What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
blinking
Example
She blinked in surprise when she saw her friend at the party. [blinked: past tense]
Example
The bright lights made him blink repeatedly. [blink: verb]
twinkling
Example
The stars were twinkling in the night sky. [twinkling: present participle]
Example
Her eyes were twinkling with excitement as she opened her birthday present. [twinkling: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Blinking is a more common word used in everyday language, especially when talking about eye movements. Twinkling is less common and is often used in more poetic or descriptive contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between blinking and twinkling?
Both blinking and twinkling can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, blinking is more commonly used in everyday conversations, while twinkling is more commonly used in literature or when describing something in a more creative or imaginative way.
