What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
teem
Example
The streets were teeming with tourists during the summer season. [teeming: verb]
Example
The river was teeming with fish, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts. [teem: present participle]
brim
Example
The cup was brimming with hot coffee. [brimming: verb]
Example
She was brimming with excitement when she heard the news. [brimming: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Brim is more commonly used than teem in everyday language. Brim is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while teem is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between teem and brim?
Both teem and brim are relatively formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional writing.
