What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wimpling
Example
The water was wimpling gently downstream. [wimpling: verb]
Example
I love the sound of wimpling water, it's so peaceful. [wimpling: gerund or present participle]
ripple
Example
The lake was calm except for the occasional ripple caused by a fish jumping. [ripple: noun]
Example
She threw a pebble into the pond and watched as the ripples spread outwards. [ripple: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ripple is more commonly used than wimpling in everyday language. Ripple is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while wimpling is less common and more specific to describing the gentle movement of water.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wimpling and ripple?
Both wimpling and ripple are relatively formal words that are often used in nature writing or poetry. However, ripple may be slightly more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
