What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rasp
Example
The sound of the saw rasp against the metal was deafening. [rasp: verb]
Example
His voice was raspy from shouting all day. [raspy: adjective]
screech
Example
The screech of the train's brakes made me cover my ears. [screech: noun]
Example
The cat screeched in pain when it got its tail caught in the door. [screeched: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Screech is more commonly used than rasp in everyday language. Screech is a more versatile word that can be used to describe a wider range of sounds, while rasp is more specialized and often used in technical or woodworking contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between rasp and screech?
Both rasp and screech are informal words that are not typically used in formal writing or speech. However, rasp may be slightly more formal due to its technical and specialized usage in woodworking and metalworking.
