What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
screech
Example
The car screeched to a halt just in time to avoid hitting the pedestrian. [screeched: past tense]
Example
The owl let out a screech that echoed through the forest. [screech: noun]
squawk
Example
The parrot squawked loudly when it saw its owner enter the room. [squawked: past tense]
Example
The passengers began to squawk when they heard the flight was delayed again. [squawk: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Squawk is more commonly used than screech in everyday language. Squawk is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while screech is less common and refers to specific types of noises.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between screech and squawk?
Both screech and squawk are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.
