What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
chittering
Example
The chittering of the birds filled the air as they gathered in the trees. [chittering: noun]
Example
I could hear the chittering of the squirrels as they played in the park. [chittering: present participle]
chattering
Example
The children were chattering happily as they played in the playground. [chattering: verb]
Example
Her teeth were chattering from the cold wind outside. [chattering: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Chattering is more commonly used than chittering in everyday language. Chattering is a versatile word that can be used to describe various types of sounds made by humans or objects, while chittering is less common and specific to certain animal or insect sounds.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between chittering and chattering?
Both chittering and chattering can be used in informal contexts. However, chattering can also be used in formal settings to describe the sound of people talking excitedly or nervously.
