What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dumb
Example
The boy was born deaf and dumb. [dumb: adjective]
Example
I was so dumbfounded by the news that I couldn't speak for a few minutes. [dumbfounded: adjective]
Example
It was a dumb idea to go hiking in the middle of a thunderstorm. [dumb: adjective]
mute
Example
The girl was mute since birth and communicated through sign language. [mute: adjective]
Example
He remained mute during the entire meeting, not saying a word. [mute: adjective]
Example
Please mute your phone before entering the theater. [mute: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mute is less common than dumb in everyday language, but is more commonly used in technical or formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dumb and mute?
Mute is more formal and technical than dumb, and is therefore more appropriate to use in academic or professional settings.
