What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
drum
Example
The drummer played the drum set with great skill. [drum: noun]
Example
The sound of the drum echoed through the room. [drum: noun]
Example
She loves to drum along to her favorite songs. [drum: verb]
timpani
Example
The timpanist skillfully played the timpani during the symphony. [timpani: noun]
Example
The timpani added a dramatic effect to the music. [timpani: noun]
Example
He practiced playing the timpani for hours before the concert. [timpani: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Drum is a more common word than timpani in everyday language, as it refers to a wider range of percussion instruments that are used in various genres of music. Timpani is a more specialized term that is primarily used in orchestral music.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between drum and timpani?
Timpani is a more formal word than drum, as it is primarily used in the context of classical music and orchestral performances. Drum is a more versatile word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the context and tone of the conversation or writing.
