What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
eddy
Example
The boat was caught in an eddy and couldn't move forward. [eddy: noun]
Example
The leaves eddied around in the wind before settling on the ground. [eddied: verb]
swirl
Example
The cream swirled around in the coffee as I stirred it. [swirled: verb]
Example
Her dress had a beautiful swirl of colors. [swirl: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Swirl is more commonly used than eddy in everyday language. Swirl is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while eddy is less common and is typically used in specific contexts related to water or air movements.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between eddy and swirl?
Both eddy and swirl are relatively informal words and can be used in casual conversation or writing.
