What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
slurring
Example
He was slurring his words after having too much to drink. [slurring: verb]
Example
The actor's slurring of his lines made it difficult for the audience to understand him. [slurring: noun]
mumbling
Example
She was mumbling her apology, making it hard for me to hear her. [mumbling: verb]
Example
The teacher asked the student to stop mumbling and speak up. [mumbling: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mumbling is more commonly used than slurring in everyday language. Mumbling is a common habit that many people have, while slurring is less common and often associated with drunkenness.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between slurring and mumbling?
Both slurring and mumbling are informal ways of speaking and are not appropriate in formal settings. However, slurring is often associated with negative behavior and should be avoided in all situations.