What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
clutching
Example
She was clutching her bag tightly as she walked through the crowded street. [clutching: verb]
Example
The child was clutching onto his mother's hand, afraid to let go. [clutching: present participle]
clamping
Example
He was clamping the pieces of wood together to create a strong bond. [clamping: verb]
Example
The mechanic used a clamp to secure the pipe in place. [clamping: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clutching is more commonly used than clamping in everyday language. Clutching is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while clamping is more specific and often used in technical or mechanical fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between clutching and clamping?
While clutching is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, clamping is more specific and can be employed in technical or formal contexts.