What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
undulation
Example
The undulation of the ocean was mesmerizing to watch. [undulation: noun]
Example
The dancer's undulating movements were graceful and fluid. [undulating: present participle]
swell
Example
The swell of the waves made it difficult to swim back to shore. [swell: noun]
Example
Her heart swelled with pride as she watched her daughter graduate. [swelled: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Swell is more commonly used than undulation in everyday language. Swell is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while undulation is less common and more specialized, typically used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between undulation and swell?
Both undulation and swell are formal words that are not commonly used in everyday conversation. However, swell may be more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while undulation is more specialized and typically used in technical or scientific writing.
