What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
kerfuffle
Example
There was a kerfuffle at the party when two guests argued over the music. [kerfuffle: noun]
Example
The teacher made a big kerfuffle over the missing homework assignment. [kerfuffle: adjective]
hullabaloo
Example
The announcement of the new policy caused a hullabaloo among the employees. [hullabaloo: noun]
Example
The children made a hullabaloo when they saw the clown at the circus. [hullabaloo: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hullabaloo is more commonly used than kerfuffle in everyday language. Hullabaloo is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while kerfuffle is less common and refers to a specific type of commotion.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between kerfuffle and hullabaloo?
Both kerfuffle and hullabaloo are informal words and are not appropriate for formal writing or speech.