What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gasping
Example
She was gasping for air after running up the stairs. [gasping: verb]
Example
The audience was left gasping in shock at the unexpected twist. [gasping: present participle]
panting
Example
The dog was panting heavily after chasing the ball. [panting: present participle]
Example
I was panting for breath after climbing the steep hill. [panting: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Panting is more commonly used than gasping in everyday language, especially in the context of physical activity or animals. Gasping is less common and often associated with more severe situations, such as medical emergencies or near-death experiences.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between gasping and panting?
Both gasping and panting are informal words that are more commonly used in casual conversation than in formal writing or speech. However, gasping may be more associated with dramatic or emotional contexts, while panting is more neutral and can be used in a wider range of situations.