“Shudder” and “shutter” are often confused due to their similar spelling and pronunciation, but they have very different meanings. “Shudder” refers to shaking or trembling, while “shutter” relates to a cover or barrier, typically for windows or cameras.
Shudder
Definition:
“Shudder” is a verb that means to shake, shiver, or tremble, often as a result of fear, cold, or revulsion.
Examples:
The severe air turbulence caused the airplane to shudder mid-flight.
I shudder to think about the consequences if the project fails.
She couldn’t help but shudder at the sight of the creepy, old house.
Shutter
Definition:
“Shutter” is a noun that refers to a cover or screen, usually for windows, or a mechanism in a camera that controls light exposure.
Examples:
Jill quickly closed the window shutters during the storm to prevent the rain from entering.
A camera’s shutter functions much like a person’s eyelid, opening and closing to control the amount of light.
The old house had wooden shutters that creaked as they swung in the wind.
“Shudder” describes an involuntary shaking or trembling, often in reaction to cold or fear, while “shutter” refers to a movable cover, typically for windows or cameras. Using these words correctly helps distinguish between actions and objects.
