What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
trickling
Example
The water was trickling down the rocks, creating a soothing sound. [trickling: verb]
Example
A few drops of sweat were trickling down his forehead as he ran. [trickling: present participle]
percolating
Example
The coffee was percolating in the pot, filling the room with its aroma. [percolating: verb]
Example
The news of the scandal was percolating through the media, causing a stir. [percolating: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Trickling is more commonly used than percolating in everyday language, especially when referring to the movement of liquids or tears. Percolating is more technical and often used in scientific or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between trickling and percolating?
Percolating is generally more formal than trickling, as it is often used in technical or academic writing. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context.
