What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
squealing
Example
The piglet was squealing loudly when the farmer picked it up. [squealing: verb]
Example
The kids were squealing with delight when they saw the clown. [squealing: present participle]
Example
The car's brakes were squealing as it came to a stop. [squealing: gerund]
screaming
Example
She was screaming for help when she saw the spider. [screaming: verb]
Example
He was screaming at his boss for not giving him a raise. [screaming: present participle]
Example
The comedian had the audience screaming with laughter. [screaming: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Screaming is more commonly used than squealing in everyday language. Screaming covers a wider range of contexts and can be used to describe a variety of situations, while squealing is more limited in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between squealing and screaming?
Both squealing and screaming are informal words that are typically used in casual conversations or informal writing. However, screaming can also be used in more formal contexts such as news reports or academic writing to describe intense emotions or reactions.
