What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
yap
Example
The little dog yapped at the mailman as he walked by. [yapped: past tense]
Example
I couldn't concentrate on my work because my coworker wouldn't stop yapping. [yapping: gerund or present participle]
yelp
Example
The child let out a yelp when he touched the hot stove. [yelp: noun]
Example
The dog yelped when he stepped on a thorn. [yelped: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Yelp is more commonly used than yap in everyday language. Yelp is a versatile word that can be used to describe a variety of sudden and brief sounds, while yap is more specific and often associated with annoying or irritating behavior.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between yap and yelp?
Both yap and yelp are informal words that are not typically used in formal contexts. However, yap may be considered more informal and even slangy than yelp.
