What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
plangent
Example
The plangent sound of the church bells echoed through the valley. [plangent: adjective]
Example
The plangent melody of the violin moved the audience to tears. [plangent: adjective]
plaintive
Example
The dog let out a plaintive howl when its owner left. [plaintive: adjective]
Example
She sang a plaintive song about lost love. [plaintive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Plaintive is more commonly used than plangent in everyday language, and is often used to describe voices or sounds that express sadness or longing. Plangent is less common and has a more formal or literary connotation, often used to describe music or poetry.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between plangent and plaintive?
Plangent is more formal and literary than plaintive, and may be considered more appropriate for use in academic or artistic contexts. Plaintive is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
