What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
swish
Example
The basketball went through the hoop with a swish. [swish: noun]
Example
She swished her hair back and forth. [swished: verb]
swoosh
Example
The rocket took off with a loud swoosh. [swoosh: noun]
Example
The waves swooshed against the shore. [swooshed: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Swish is more commonly used than swoosh in everyday language, especially in sports contexts. Swoosh is less common but is still used in nature or weather contexts.
Whatβs the difference in the tone of formality between swish and swoosh?
Both swish and swoosh are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.
