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"Noise" vs. "sound": decoding the audible divide

Reviewed and edited by

Anwar Kareem 24/11/2024, 11:54

English.me team member

Noise and sound. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "noise" and "sound" refer to auditory phenomena that are detected by the sense of hearing.

What is different?

"Sound" is a more general term for anything that can be heard and encompasses all types of auditory waves; it can be pleasant, neutral, or unpleasant. "Noise", on the other hand, typically refers to unwanted or unpleasant sounds or a sound that is being disruptive.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for noise) and sound

Examples of usage

Noise

The construction site produced a lot of noise throughout the day.
I couldn't concentrate on my work due to the noise coming from the street.
The noise of the traffic kept me awake all night.

Sound

The sound of the ocean waves is very calming.
He heard a strange sound coming from the basement.
Musicians work tirelessly to produce beautiful sound.

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