Reverberate vs. resonate: what’s the difference?
The short answer
Reverberate typically refers to the reflection, continuation, or echoing of sound, often within an enclosed space. It can also mean the persistent effects of an action or event. Resonate, while also relating to sound, more often refers to the amplification and vibration of sound in sympathy with something else, or to the idea of something having a significant impact or meaning to someone.
What they have in common
Both reverberate and resonate involve sound or vibration. They can describe physical phenomena as well as metaphorical or emotional impacts. Both words involve the concept of sounds reflecting or being amplified.
Examples
reverberate
- The sound of the church bells reverberated through the valley.
- His voice reverberated in the empty hall.
- The impact of the decision reverberated across the community.
resonate
- Her words resonated with the audience.
- The music resonated in the concert hall, filling it with warmth.
- This particular piece of art resonates deeply with me.
Which one is more common?
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