What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
strident
Example
The strident sound of the alarm clock woke me up. [strident: adjective]
Example
The politician's strident speech was met with boos and jeers from the audience. [strident: adjective]
shrill
Example
The shrill cry of the baby woke up the entire house. [shrill: adjective]
Example
She spoke in a shrill voice that grated on my nerves. [shrill: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shrill is more commonly used than strident in everyday language, and is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between strident and shrill?
Both strident and shrill are considered formal words, but strident may be perceived as more academic or technical due to its less frequent usage in everyday language.
