What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
clacking
Example
Her high heels were clacking on the marble floor as she walked. [clacking: verb]
Example
The old typewriter was clacking loudly as he typed his report. [clacking: gerund or present participle]
clicking
Example
She heard the clicking sound when she pressed the camera's shutter button. [clicking: noun]
Example
He was clicking the mouse rapidly while playing the online game. [clicking: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clicking is more commonly used than clacking in everyday language, especially in the context of technology and digital devices. Clacking is less common and often used in specific contexts, such as describing the sound of heels or typewriters.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between clacking and clicking?
Both clacking and clicking can be used in informal contexts. However, clicking is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal situations, particularly when referring to technology and digital devices.
