What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
waffling
Example
The politician kept waffling on the issue, never giving a straight answer. [waffling: verb]
Example
Stop waffling and make a decision already! [waffling: present participle]
babbling
Example
The toddler was babbling happily to herself in the corner. [babbling: verb]
Example
I couldn't concentrate on my work with my coworker babbling on and on about her weekend. [babbling: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Babbling is more commonly used than waffling in everyday language. Babbling is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while waffling is less common and tends to be associated with formal or professional settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between waffling and babbling?
Waffling is typically associated with a formal or professional tone, while babbling can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the tone and audience.