What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
resonate
Example
The speech really resonated with me and made me think about my own experiences. [resonated: past tense]
Example
The guitar's sound resonated throughout the concert hall. [resonated: verb]
Example
The idea of social justice resonates with many people around the world. [resonates: present tense]
echo
Example
Her voice echoed through the empty hallway. [echoed: past tense]
Example
The new policy echoes the previous one in many ways. [echoes: present tense]
Example
His words echoed in my mind long after he had left. [echoed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Echo is more commonly used than resonate in everyday language. Echo is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while resonate is less common and tends to be used in more formal or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between resonate and echo?
Resonate is typically associated with a formal and academic tone, while echo is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.