What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
squeaked
Example
The mouse squeaked as it ran across the room. [squeaked: verb]
Example
The old door squeaked loudly when I opened it. [squeaked: past tense]
screeched
Example
The car screeched to a halt just in time to avoid hitting the pedestrian. [screeched: verb]
Example
The eagle screeched as it swooped down to catch its prey. [screeched: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Squeaked is more commonly used than screeched in everyday language, especially when describing small animals or objects. Screeched is less common and often used in specific contexts, such as describing the sound of tires on a road or brakes on a vehicle.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between squeaked and screeched?
Both squeaked and screeched are informal words and are not typically used in formal writing or speech.
