What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scurrying
Example
The mouse was scurrying across the kitchen floor. [scurrying: verb]
Example
We could hear the scurrying of little feet in the walls. [scurrying: noun]
skittering
Example
The spider was skittering across the ceiling. [skittering: verb]
Example
We could hear the skittering of tiny claws on the hardwood floor. [skittering: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scurrying is more commonly used than skittering in everyday language, especially when referring to rodents or larger insects. Skittering is less common and is typically used in more specific contexts, such as describing the movement of spiders or crabs.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scurrying and skittering?
Both scurrying and skittering are informal words and are not typically used in formal writing or speech.
