What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scutter
Example
The mouse scuttered across the floor and disappeared under the couch. [scutter: verb]
Example
The papers scuttered around the room as the wind blew through the open window. [scuttered: past tense]
scurry
Example
The rabbit scurried away as soon as it heard the sound of footsteps. [scurried: past tense]
Example
We need to scurry if we want to catch the train on time. [scurry: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scurry is more commonly used than scutter in everyday language. Scurry is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while scutter is less common and more specific to the movement of small animals.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scutter and scurry?
Both scutter and scurry are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.
