What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rumbling
Example
The rumbling of the train could be heard from miles away. [rumbling: noun]
Example
Her stomach was rumbling with hunger. [rumbling: verb]
grumbling
Example
He was grumbling about the long wait in line. [grumbling: verb]
Example
The grumbling of thunder could be heard in the distance. [grumbling: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grumbling is more commonly used than rumbling in everyday language. Grumbling is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while rumbling is less common and has more specific uses.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between rumbling and grumbling?
Both rumbling and grumbling are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.