What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
palpitation
Example
She experienced palpitations after drinking too much coffee. [palpitations: noun]
Example
I could feel my heart palpitate as I waited for the exam results. [palpitate: verb]
throbbing
Example
The headache was so intense that it felt like a throbbing pain in my temples. [throbbing: adjective]
Example
My tooth was throbbing with pain, so I went to the dentist. [throbbing: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Throbbing is more commonly used than palpitation in everyday language. Throbbing is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while palpitation is less common and refers to a specific sensation in the chest.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between palpitation and throbbing?
While palpitation is typically associated with a formal and medical tone, throbbing is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
