What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
squeaking
Example
The old wooden chair was squeaking loudly every time I moved. [squeaking: verb]
Example
I heard a faint squeaking noise coming from the attic. [squeaking: noun]
Example
The violinist was squeaking out a tune that was barely recognizable. [squeaking: verb]
screeching
Example
The car screeched to a halt just in time to avoid hitting the pedestrian. [screeched: past tense]
Example
The monkey let out a screeching cry that echoed through the jungle. [screeching: gerund or present participle]
Example
The angry customer was screeching at the top of her lungs, demanding a refund. [screeching: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Squeaking is more commonly used than screeching in everyday language. Squeaking is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while screeching is less common and usually reserved for more dramatic or intense situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between squeaking and screeching?
Both squeaking and screeching are informal words and are not typically used in formal writing or speech.
