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"Belch" vs. "burp": same sound, different vibe

Reviewed and edited by

Lloyd Cooper 18/01/2025, 12:14

English.me team member

Belch and burp. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "belch" and "burp" refer to the act of expelling gas from the stomach through the mouth. They can be used as both nouns and verbs to describe this physiological action.

What is different?

"Belch" can be used both in literal and figurative contexts, such as in "The volcano belched smoke", whereas "burp" is typically used only in the literal sense. "Burp" is more commonly used in everyday language and is considered less formal than "belch".

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for belch) and burp

Examples of usage

Belch

He couldn't help but belch loudly after finishing the soda.
The old truck belched black smoke as it climbed the hill.
The chimney belched flames during the intense fire.

Burp

The baby gave a small burp after drinking her milk.
He tried to stifle a burp during the quiet classroom.
Carbonated drinks always make me burp.

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