What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tabourine
Example
The minstrel played the tabourine while singing his ballad. [tabourine: noun]
Example
She learned to play the tabourine during her trip to Morocco. [tabourine: noun]
tambourine
Example
The drummer added a tambourine to the song for extra rhythm. [tambourine: noun]
Example
She shook the tambourine to the beat of the music. [tambourine: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tambourine is more commonly used than tabourine in everyday language. Tambourine is a widely recognized instrument used in many genres of music, while tabourine is less common and often associated with specific cultural contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tabourine and tambourine?
Both tabourine and tambourine are informal words and can be used interchangeably in casual settings. However, tambourine is more versatile and can be used in formal contexts as well.