What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wince
Example
She winced in pain as the doctor gave her a shot. [winced: past tense]
Example
I couldn't help but wince when I heard the sound of nails on a chalkboard. [wince: verb]
quail
Example
The small animal quailed in fear as the predator approached. [quailed: past tense]
Example
I began to quail at the thought of giving a speech in front of a large audience. [quail: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Wince is more commonly used than quail in everyday language. Wince is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while quail is less common and has a more specific usage related to fear or intimidation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between wince and quail?
Both wince and quail are informal in tone and can be used in casual conversation. However, quail can have a negative connotation of weakness or cowardice, making it less appropriate for formal contexts.
