Grito vs. chillido

The Spanish language has a rich vocabulary when it comes to expressing different kinds of sounds or loud voices, two of which are 'grito' and 'chillido'. Both words essentially translate to 'scream' or 'shriek' in English, but they are used in different contexts and imply subtly different meanings.

Grito

'Grito' is generally used to describe a loud cry or yell, often in reference to anger, fear, or excitement. It is a more versatile term.
El grito de miedo que dio Ana despertó a todos en la casa.
(The scream of fear Ana gave woke everyone in the house.)
El grito del público cuando el equipo anotó fue ensordecedor.
(The shout from the crowd when the team scored was deafening.)

Chillido

'Chillido', on the other hand, is used to describe a high-pitched scream or screech. It is often used in reference to animals or machinery.
El chillido del cerdo asustó a los niños.
(The pig's squeal scared the kids.)
El chillido de las ruedas del autobús se oía a kilómetros de distancia.
(The screech from the bus wheels could be heard miles away.)

Summary

'Grito' and 'chillido' are both Spanish words that can be translated as 'scream' or 'shriek' in English. However, 'grito' is a more general term referring to any loud cry or yell and is often associated with human expressions of emotion, while 'chillido' conveys a high-pitched screech or squeal associated with animals or machinery.