What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
vibrating
Example
The phone was vibrating on the table. [vibrating: verb]
Example
The sound of the bass guitar was vibrating through the room. [vibrating: present participle]
trembling
Example
She was trembling with fear after the scary movie. [trembling: present participle]
Example
His voice was trembling as he spoke in front of the audience. [trembling: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Trembling is more commonly used than vibrating in everyday language. Trembling is a versatile word that can describe physical or emotional states, while vibrating is more specific to mechanical or electronic devices.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between vibrating and trembling?
Both vibrating and trembling are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
