What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
clattered
Example
The pots and pans clattered loudly as they fell from the shelf. [clattered: past tense]
Example
She accidentally bumped into the table, causing the dishes to clatter noisily. [clatter: verb]
clanged
Example
The workers were repairing the bridge, and the hammers clanged loudly against the metal beams. [clanged: past tense]
Example
He accidentally dropped the wrench, and it clanged loudly on the concrete floor. [clang: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clattered is more commonly used than clanged in everyday language. Clattered can be used in various contexts, while clanged is more specific to situations involving metal objects.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between clattered and clanged?
Both clattered and clanged are informal words. However, clanged may have a slightly more formal connotation due to its association with industrial settings or heavy objects.