What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gurgling
Example
The stream was gurgling as it flowed over the rocks. [gurgling: verb]
Example
He could hear the gurgling of the baby's milk as she drank it. [gurgling: gerund or present participle]
bubble
Example
The pot of soup was bubbling on the stove. [bubbling: verb]
Example
She blew bubbles with her gum while waiting for the bus. [bubbles: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bubble is more commonly used than gurgling in everyday language. Bubble is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while gurgling is less common and often used in specific contexts, such as describing the sound of water flowing or the movement of air or gas.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gurgling and bubble?
Both gurgling and bubble are relatively informal words and can be used in casual conversation or writing.