What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ringing
Example
I heard the ringing of the phone and rushed to answer it. [ringing: noun]
Example
The constant ringing in my ears is driving me crazy. [ringing: gerund or present participle]
buzzing
Example
I could hear the buzzing of the bees in the garden. [buzzing: noun]
Example
The fridge was making a loud buzzing noise that was hard to ignore. [buzzing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ringing and buzzing are both common words in everyday language, but ringing is more commonly used to describe the sound of a phone or doorbell, while buzzing is more commonly used to describe the sound of an insect or electrical appliance.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ringing and buzzing?
Both ringing and buzzing are informal words that can be used in casual conversation. However, ringing may be slightly more formal due to its association with phones or alarms, which can be used in professional settings.
