What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
quake
Example
The quake was so strong that it caused buildings to collapse. [quake: noun]
Example
The ground began to quake beneath our feet, and we knew we had to evacuate. [quake: verb]
tremble
Example
She was trembling with fear as she approached the stage. [trembling: verb]
Example
His voice trembled as he spoke about his difficult childhood. [trembled: past tense]
Example
The leaves on the tree trembled in the wind. [trembled: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tremble is more commonly used than quake in everyday language. Tremble is versatile and can be used to describe a wide range of physical and emotional sensations, while quake is less common and typically reserved for describing large-scale natural disasters.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between quake and tremble?
Both quake and tremble can be used in formal and informal contexts, but quake may be more formal due to its association with natural disasters and emergencies.
