What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
strummed
Example
He strummed his guitar while singing his favorite song. [strummed: verb]
Example
The strumming of the ukulele created a soothing melody. [strumming: gerund or present participle]
plucked
Example
She plucked the strings of her harp with great skill. [plucked: verb]
Example
The plucking of the guitar strings added a unique texture to the song. [plucking: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Strummed is more commonly used than plucked in everyday language, especially in the context of popular music. Strumming is a common technique used in folk, country, and acoustic music, while plucking is more commonly used in classical and orchestral music.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between strummed and plucked?
While plucked is typically associated with a formal and precise tone, strummed is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in various formality levels.