What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
whistling
Example
He was whistling a happy tune while he worked. [whistling: verb]
Example
The sound of whistling echoed through the empty hallway. [whistling: noun]
whistle
Example
She blew the whistle to signal the start of the race. [whistle: noun]
Example
He whistled at the dog to come back. [whistled: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Whistle is more commonly used than whistling in everyday language. Whistle is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while whistling is less common and refers to a specific act of producing a musical sound by blowing air through pursed lips.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between whistling and whistle?
Both whistling and whistle are typically associated with an informal tone, but whistle can also be used in formal contexts, such as in sports or emergency situations.
