What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
muffled
Example
The sound of the fireworks was muffled by the thick fog. [muffled: adjective]
Example
She spoke in a muffled voice, barely audible over the noise. [muffled: adjective]
Example
He muffled his cough with his handkerchief. [muffled: verb]
subdued
Example
The music played in the background was subdued and calming. [subdued: adjective]
Example
After the argument, she was subdued and didn't speak much. [subdued: adjective]
Example
The artist used subdued colors to create a peaceful atmosphere. [subdued: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Subdued is more commonly used than muffled in everyday language. Subdued is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while muffled is more specific and is mostly used to describe sounds or voices.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between muffled and subdued?
Both muffled and subdued are relatively formal words and are appropriate for use in formal or academic writing.
