What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bump
Example
I accidentally bumped into the table and spilled my drink. [bumped: past tense]
Example
There's a bump on the road, so be careful while driving. [bump: noun]
thump
Example
He thumped the table with his fist to get everyone's attention. [thumped: past tense]
Example
I could hear the thump of the bass from the music playing next door. [thump: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bump is more commonly used than thump in everyday language. Bump is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while thump is less common and is more specific to describing heavy blows or sounds.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bump and thump?
While bump is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, thump can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the intended meaning.
