What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
onomatopoeia
Example
The buzzing of the bee is an example of onomatopoeia. [onomatopoeia: noun]
Example
The word 'hiss' is an example of onomatopoeia because it sounds like the sound it represents. [onomatopoeic: adjective]
echoism
Example
The word 'murmur' is an example of echoism because it imitates the sound it represents. [echoic: adjective]
Example
The use of 'sizzle' to describe the sound of frying bacon is an example of echoism. [echoistic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Onomatopoeia is more commonly used than echoism in everyday language and is often associated with children's literature and comic books.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between onomatopoeia and echoism?
Echoism is more formal than onomatopoeia and is commonly used in academic and literary contexts.
