What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rambling
Example
We went on a rambling hike through the forest. [rambling: adjective]
Example
The professor gave a rambling lecture that was difficult to follow. [rambling: adjective]
Example
The old mansion had a rambling layout with many rooms and hallways. [rambling: adjective]
meandering
Example
The road meandered through the countryside, passing by farms and fields. [meandered: verb]
Example
The discussion meandered from topic to topic without a clear direction. [meandered: verb]
Example
The meandering river flowed through the valley, creating a scenic landscape. [meandering: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Meandering is less common than rambling in everyday language. Rambling is more versatile and can be used to describe various contexts, while meandering is more specific and often used to describe natural features such as rivers or streams.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between rambling and meandering?
Both rambling and meandering are generally informal and casual words, but rambling can also have a negative connotation when used to describe speech or writing that lacks coherence or organization.
