What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shudder
Example
I shuddered at the thought of going back to that haunted house. [shuddered: past tense]
Example
The news of the accident made me shudder with fear. [shudder: verb]
quiver
Example
Her voice quivered as she spoke about her traumatic experience. [quivered: past tense]
Example
The surface of the water quivered as the boat passed by. [quivered: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Quiver is more commonly used than shudder in everyday language. Quiver is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while shudder is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shudder and quiver?
Both shudder and quiver are considered formal words and may not be commonly used in casual conversation. However, quiver is more versatile and can be used in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.