What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bounced
Example
The basketball bounced off the rim and into the hands of the opposing team. [bounced: past tense]
Example
The kids were bouncing on the trampoline, having a great time. [bouncing: present participle]
ricochet
Example
The bullet ricocheted off the wall and narrowly missed hitting the target. [ricocheted: past tense]
Example
We could hear the sound of rocks ricocheting off the metal roof during the storm. [ricocheting: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bounced is more commonly used than ricochet in everyday language. Bounced is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while ricochet is more specific and less frequently used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bounced and ricochet?
While bounced is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, ricochet is more specific and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, especially when describing the movement of projectiles.
