student asking question

Can I say "moan" instead of "groan" in this context? If not, what would be the main difference between them?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Although the meaning is somewhat similar, "groaned" is more appropriate in this context than "moaned" is. To groan means to make an inarticulate (meaning a sound without words) sound that is deep. If the sound made was higher in pitch, "moaned" can be used here! Ex: The man groaned in frustration. Ex: The woman injured her leg and moaned in pain.

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