What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
waft
Example
The smell of freshly baked bread wafted through the kitchen. [wafted: past tense verb]
Example
The curtains wafted in the breeze from the open window. [wafted: past participle]
flutter
Example
The butterfly fluttered its wings and flew away. [fluttered: past tense verb]
Example
The pages of the book fluttered in the wind. [fluttered: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Flutter is more commonly used than waft in everyday language. Flutter is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while waft is less common and has a more specific use.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between waft and flutter?
Both waft and flutter are informal words and are suitable for casual conversations or creative writing. However, waft may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its association with pleasant and soothing sensations.
