What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
yelped
Example
The puppy yelped when it accidentally stepped on a thorn. [yelped: past tense]
Example
She yelped with excitement when she won the game. [yelped: verb]
shriek
Example
She let out a blood-curdling shriek when she saw the spider. [shriek: noun]
Example
He shrieked in pain when he stubbed his toe. [shrieked: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Yelp is less common than shriek in everyday language, but is still a useful word to know, especially for animal lovers or pet owners. Shriek is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between yelped and shriek?
Both yelp and shriek are informal words that are more commonly used in casual conversations or storytelling rather than formal writing or speeches.
