What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fidgeting
Example
He couldn't stop fidgeting during the meeting, which made it hard for others to concentrate. [fidgeting: gerund]
Example
She always fidgets with her hair when she's nervous. [fidgets: verb]
jiggling
Example
The car keys kept jiggling in his pocket as he ran. [jiggling: verb]
Example
She couldn't stop jiggling her leg during the movie, which annoyed the person next to her. [jiggling: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fidgeting is a more common word than jiggling in everyday language, as it is a behavior that many people experience. Jiggling is less commonly used and is often associated with specific contexts, such as bouncing or shaking objects.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fidgeting and jiggling?
Both fidgeting and jiggling are informal words that are used in casual conversation. However, fidgeting may be seen as more acceptable in formal settings, as it is a behavior that is widely recognized and understood, while jiggling may be seen as too playful or childish for formal contexts.
