Which one is correct?
"goosebumps" or "chicken skin"?

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goosebumps

The term 'goosebumps' refers to the small raised bumps on the skin caused by cold, fear, or excitement. It is a commonly used term in English.

It is used to describe the physical reaction of the skin to cold, fear, or excitement. For example, 'The scary movie gave me goosebumps.'

Examples:

  • The chilly wind gave me goosebumps.
  • She felt goosebumps all over her arms.
  • The thrilling roller coaster ride left him with goosebumps.
  • The eerie silence in the haunted house gave her goosebumps.
  • The touching speech gave everyone goosebumps.

Alternatives:

  • goose pimples
  • horripilation
  • cutis anserina
  • piloerection
  • skin pimpling

chicken skin

The term 'chicken skin' is also used to describe the raised bumps on the skin caused by cold, fear, or excitement. It is less common than 'goosebumps' but still valid.

It is used in the same way as 'goosebumps' to describe the physical reaction of the skin. For example, 'The spooky story gave her chicken skin.'

Examples:

  • The creepy movie scene gave me chicken skin.
  • The unexpected news sent shivers down her spine and gave her chicken skin.
  • The eerie atmosphere in the old house made him break out in chicken skin.
  • The haunting melody of the song gave her chicken skin.
  • The sudden noise in the dark alley caused chicken skin on his arms.

Alternatives:

  • goosebumps
  • goose pimples
  • horripilation
  • cutis anserina
  • piloerection
Both 'goosebumps' and 'chicken skin' are correct phrases used to describe the raised bumps on your skin when you are cold, scared, or excited. They are comparable in meaning and can be used interchangeably in informal contexts.

Last Updated: March 25, 2024

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