What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
coo
Example
The dove cooed softly in the tree. [coo: verb]
Example
She cooed at the baby, trying to calm him down. [cooed: past tense]
Example
The audience cooed in delight at the adorable puppy on stage. [cooed: past participle]
murmur
Example
The students murmured among themselves while waiting for the teacher. [murmured: past tense]
Example
He murmured an apology, hoping she wouldn't hear him. [murmured: verb]
Example
The murmuring of the brook was the only sound in the peaceful forest. [murmuring: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Murmur is more commonly used than coo in everyday language. Murmur is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while coo is less common and refers to a specific type of sound made by birds or people.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between coo and murmur?
Both coo and murmur are relatively informal words, but murmur can be used in more formal contexts, such as academic writing or literature, where it is often employed to create a mood or atmosphere.
