What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cymbal
Example
The drummer hit the cymbal with his drumstick. [cymbal: noun]
Example
The cymbals clashed loudly during the concert. [cymbals: plural noun]
gong
Example
The orchestra used a gong to create a dramatic effect. [gong: noun]
Example
The sound of the gong reverberated throughout the room. [gong: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cymbal is more commonly used than gong in everyday language, as it is more versatile and has a wider range of applications in various musical genres. Gong is less common and is associated with specific cultural and musical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cymbal and gong?
Both cymbal and gong are generally associated with formal and professional musical settings, but gong may be perceived as more formal due to its association with orchestral and meditative contexts.