What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
peaking
Example
The climbers finally reached the peak of the mountain. [peak: noun]
Example
The excitement of the concert was peaking as the band played their final song. [peaking: present participle]
climbing
Example
She enjoys climbing mountains and has scaled several peaks in her lifetime. [climbing: present participle]
Example
The children were climbing the tree to reach the apples at the top. [climbing: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Climbing is more commonly used than peaking in everyday language. Climbing is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts, such as rock climbing, tree climbing, or wall climbing. Peaking is less common and is typically used in the context of mountains or hills.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between peaking and climbing?
Both peaking and climbing can be used in formal and informal contexts, but climbing is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.