What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
grunt
Example
The piglet let out a grunt as it ate its food. [grunt: noun]
Example
He grunted as he lifted the heavy box onto the shelf. [grunted: past tense verb]
groan
Example
She let out a groan as she sat down after a long day at work. [groan: noun]
Example
He groaned when he saw the long line at the grocery store. [groaned: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Groan is more commonly used than grunt in everyday language. Groan is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while grunt is less common and has more specific uses.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between grunt and groan?
While grunt is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, groan can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be employed in a wider range of situations.