What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
honking
Example
The driver behind us kept honking his horn impatiently. [honking: verb]
Example
The honking of car horns outside woke me up early this morning. [honking: noun]
tooting
Example
The driver in front of us gave a little toot to say thank you. [tooting: verb]
Example
I heard a tooting sound outside, but it didn't bother me. [tooting: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Honking is more commonly used than tooting in everyday language, especially in contexts where drivers are expressing frustration or anger. Tooting is less common and is typically used in situations where drivers want to express politeness or gratitude.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between honking and tooting?
Both honking and tooting are informal words that are typically used in casual conversation. However, honking can also be used in more formal contexts, such as news reports or legal documents, to describe the use of a car horn.
