Whining or Whinning
Which Spelling is Correct?
Confused between "whining" and "whinning"? Learn the correct spelling, meaning, and how to use it properly in your writing.
Incorrect: Whinning
"Whinning" is a misspelling. The correct spelling is "whining" with a single "n".
Correct: Whining
"Whining" is the correct spelling. It refers to complaining in a feeble or petulant way.
Summary
Whining is the correct spelling. It refers to complaining in a feeble, petulant, or irritating way, often in a high-pitched voice.
Whinning is incorrect and should never be used in formal writing.
Definition
Whining (verb)
To complain in a feeble or petulant way, often in a high-pitched, irritating voice. It can also refer to making a prolonged high-pitched sound.
Whining (noun)
The act of complaining in a feeble or petulant manner, or a prolonged high-pitched sound.
Examples
Correct: "Stop whining about the weather and just enjoy the day."
Correct: "The child was whining about having to go to bed."
Correct: "I could hear the whining of the engine from the garage."
Incorrect: "Stop whinning about it" (should be "whining")
Synonyms
For complaining:
- • Complaining
- • Moaning
- • Grumbling
- • Griping
- • Kvetching
For sounds:
- • Whimpering
- • Crying
- • Squealing
- • Shrieking
- • Wailing
Notes:
- • "Whining" is spelled with a single "n"
- • The word comes from the verb "whine"
- • It can refer to both complaining and making high-pitched sounds
- • Often used to describe irritating or annoying behavior
- • The past tense is "whined" and the present participle is "whining"
Frequently Asked Questions
Is "whinning" ever correct?
No, "whinning" is never correct. The correct spelling is always "whining" with a single "n".
How do you pronounce "whining"?
It's pronounced as "WHY-ning" with a long "i" sound, not "WHIN-ning".
What's the difference between whining and complaining?
Whining typically implies a more irritating, petulant, or feeble manner of complaining, often with a high-pitched voice.
Can "whining" refer to sounds other than human voices?
Yes, "whining" can refer to high-pitched sounds made by machines, animals, or other sources, not just human complaining.
Is it common to misspell "whining"?
Yes, many people incorrectly add an extra "n" and spell it as "whinning". This is a very common spelling mistake.
Final Summary
Whining is the correct spelling. It refers to complaining in a feeble or petulant way, often in a high-pitched voice.
Whinning is always incorrect. Remember to use only one "n" when writing this word.