Shudder vs Shutter
What’s the difference between them?
Shudder
Meaning:
to tremble or shake with fear, cold, or other strong emotion
Examples:
1. I couldn't help but shudder when I saw the spider crawling up my arm.
2. Every time I hear thunder, I shudder from the sound.
3. I felt a shudder of fear ripple through my body when I heard the news.
Shutter
Meaning:
A shutter is a solid or louvered movable covering for a window, used to block out light and/or sound.
Examples:
1. I need to replace the broken shutter on my bedroom window.
2. The photographer adjusted the shutter speed on his camera.
3. Emily closed the shutters to block out the bright sunlight.
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Shudder
1. Tremble
2. Quiver
3. Flinch
4. Recoil
5. Shiver with fear/apprehension
1. Relax
2. Calm
3. Unflinch
4. Compose oneself
5. Be unafraid
Shutter
1. Close
2. Blind
3. Cover
4. Draw the curtains
5. Seal off
1. Open
2. Unblock
3. Reveal
4. Illuminate
5. Uncover
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Shudder", "Shutter".
1. A shudder is a sudden, brief, involuntary shaking or shivering.
2. Shudder typically occurs as a physical reaction to a strong emotion.
3. A shutter is a device used to block light from entering a space.
4. Create a mnemonic phrase such as 'Shut the shutter to keep out the light.'
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
When should the word 'Shudder' be used?
Shudder should be used to describe a sudden, involuntary movement or a tremor, usually caused by fear, revulsion or a strong emotion. It can also be used to describe a sensation of fear or horror. For example, 'The thought of speaking in public made me shudder'.
When is the appropriate context for using the word 'Shutter'?
Shutter can be used to describe a window or door that closes or opens by sliding or folding, or to refer to the device that controls this motion. Additionally, shutter can refer to the act of closing or opening such a window or door. For example, 'He pulled the shutter down to block out the light'.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
No, the two words do not share the same pronunciation. Shudder is pronounced as 'shuh-der' whereas shutter is pronounced as 'shut-er'.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
A common mistake is to confuse shudder with shutter. Additionally, people often use shudder to refer to movements that occur over a period of time, rather than sudden, involuntary movements. People may also mistakenly use shutter to refer to a window or door that closes with a bang, such as slamming a door, rather than sliding or folding.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. I felt a ___________ go down my spine as I heard the ghostly sound.
2. She quickly ___________ the door behind her to prevent anyone from entering.
3. The old house was filled with creaky ___________ that made my skin crawl.
4. He was so surprised he could not ___________ himself from the shock.
5. The wind howled, causing the windows to ___________ in the wind.
6. I could not help but ___________ in fear when I saw the creature.
1. Shudder
Explanation: To shudder means to tremble or shake slightly, often from fear, shock, or cold. In this sentence, the narrator is feeling fear, so the correct word choice is shudder.
2. Shutter
Explanation: To shutter is to close something, like a door or window, with shutters. In this sentence, the person is attempting to prevent anyone from entering, so the correct word choice is shutter.
3. Shutter
Explanation: To shutter is to close something, like a door or window, with shutters. In this sentence, the old house is filled with creaky objects that close, so the correct word choice is shutter.
4. Shudder
Explanation: To shudder means to tremble or shake slightly, often from fear, shock, or cold. In this sentence, the person is unable to control himself from the shock, so the correct word choice is shudder.
5. Shutter
Explanation: To shutter is to close something, like a door or window, with shutters. In this sentence, the wind is causing the windows to close, so the correct word choice is shutter.
6. Shudder
Explanation: To shudder means to tremble or shake slightly, often from fear, shock, or cold. In this sentence, the narrator is feeling fear, so the correct word choice is shudder.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.