What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
jingle
Example
The jingle of the keys in his pocket was a constant reminder of his nervousness. [jingle: noun]
Example
The commercial's jingle was stuck in my head all day. [jingle: noun]
Example
The sleigh bells jingled as the horse-drawn carriage made its way down the snowy path. [jingled: verb]
clinking
Example
The clinking of the glasses signaled the start of the party. [clinking: noun]
Example
The prisoner's chains clinked as he walked towards his cell. [clinked: verb]
Example
The coins clinked as they were dropped into the piggy bank. [clinked: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clinking is more commonly used than jingle in everyday language. Clinking is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while jingle is less common and often used in specific contexts, such as advertising.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between jingle and clinking?
Both jingle and clinking are informal words, but jingle can be used in more formal contexts, such as advertising or music, while clinking is typically associated with casual or social situations.
