What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
squawl
Example
The baby let out a loud squawl when he was hungry. [squawl: noun]
Example
The neighbors were having a squawling match late at night. [squawling: gerund or present participle]
screech
Example
The tires screeched as the car came to a sudden stop. [screeched: past tense]
Example
The child let out a screech of excitement when she saw the ice cream truck. [screech: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Screech is more commonly used than squawl in everyday language. Screech is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while squawl is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between squawl and screech?
Both squawl and screech are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.