What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
intone
Example
The priest intoned the prayers in a deep, solemn voice. [intoned: verb]
Example
She intoned the poem with a melancholic tone, capturing the mood of the piece. [intoning: gerund or present participle]
recite
Example
He recited the Gettysburg Address flawlessly. [recited: verb]
Example
The actor recited his lines with passion and conviction. [reciting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Recite is more commonly used than intone in everyday language. Recite is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while intone is less common and often associated with religious or spiritual texts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between intone and recite?
Both intone and recite can be used in formal or informal contexts, but recite is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
