What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ripple
Example
The water in the lake was calm, with only a few ripples caused by the breeze. [ripple: noun]
Example
The sound of the guitar echoed through the room, causing a ripple of excitement among the audience. [ripple: metaphorical]
rippling
Example
The curtains were rippling in the wind, creating a soothing effect in the room. [rippling: present participle]
Example
The laughter of the children was rippling through the park, making everyone smile. [rippling: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ripple is more commonly used than rippling in everyday language, especially when referring to the effect of water. Rippling is less common and may be used in more specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ripple and rippling?
Both ripple and rippling are relatively neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
