What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scurrying
Example
The mouse scurried across the kitchen floor. [scurried: past tense]
Example
The shoppers were scurrying around the mall, trying to find last-minute gifts. [scurrying: present participle]
scampering
Example
The puppy scampered around the yard, chasing after its tail. [scampered: past tense]
Example
The kids were scampering around the playground, laughing and having fun. [scampering: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scurrying is more commonly used than scampering in everyday language, especially when describing the movements of small animals or people in a hurry.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scurrying and scampering?
Both scurrying and scampering are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.
