What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mew
Example
The cat let out a pitiful mew when it got its paw stuck in the fence. [mew: noun]
Example
The kitten mewed loudly until its owner came to feed it. [mewed: past tense verb]
meow
Example
The cat meowed softly as it curled up in its owner's lap. [meowed: past tense verb]
Example
The playful kitten meowed excitedly as it chased after a toy. [meow: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Meow is much more commonly used than mew in everyday language. Meow is a more versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts, while mew is less common and usually reserved for specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mew and meow?
Neither mew nor meow are particularly formal words, and both are suitable for use in casual conversation or informal writing.
