What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crackling
Example
The bacon was sizzling and crackling in the pan. [crackling: verb]
Example
The firewood was dry and produced a loud crackling sound. [crackling: noun]
crepitation
Example
The doctor heard crepitation in the patient's knee joint. [crepitation: noun]
Example
I felt a crepitation in my neck when I turned my head. [crepitation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Crackling is a more commonly used word in everyday language, while crepitation is more specific to medical or scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crackling and crepitation?
Crepitation is a more formal word due to its technical and medical associations, while crackling can be used in both formal and informal contexts.