What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
thud
Example
The book fell off the shelf with a loud thud. [thud: noun]
Example
She heard a thudding sound coming from upstairs. [thudding: present participle]
bang
Example
The door slammed shut with a loud bang. [bang: noun]
Example
He banged his fist on the table in frustration. [banged: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bang is more commonly used than thud in everyday language. Bang is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while thud is less common and refers to a specific type of sound.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between thud and bang?
Both thud and bang can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but bang may be more appropriate in situations where a stronger or more forceful connotation is desired.