What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cooed
Example
The mother cooed to her newborn baby, trying to calm him down. [cooed: verb]
Example
She cooed over the cute little puppy, petting it gently. [cooed: past tense]
purred
Example
The cat purred contentedly as it curled up on its owner's lap. [purred: verb]
Example
He purred in her ear, telling her how beautiful she looked. [purred: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Purred is less common than cooed in everyday language. Cooed is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while purred is more specific and often used in romantic or flirtatious situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cooed and purred?
Both cooed and purred are informal words that are more commonly used in casual conversations or intimate settings. However, purred can be considered more informal and even inappropriate in certain formal or professional contexts.