What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
clink
Example
The glasses clinked together as they made a toast. [clink: verb]
Example
I heard the clink of coins in his pocket as he walked. [clink: noun]
tinkle
Example
The wind chimes tinkled in the gentle breeze. [tinkle: verb]
Example
I could hear the tinkle of the keys as she dropped them on the table. [tinkle: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clink is more commonly used than tinkle in everyday language. Clink is often used to describe the sound of glasses or coins, which are more frequently encountered in daily life. On the other hand, tinkle is less common and is typically used in specific contexts such as describing the sound of bells or water droplets.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between clink and tinkle?
Both clink and tinkle are relatively informal words. They are commonly used in casual conversations or informal writing to describe sounds. However, clink can also be used in more formal contexts when referring to the sound of glasses or coins in a professional setting.
