What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bough
Example
The children climbed onto the bough of the oak tree. [bough: noun]
Example
The weight of the snow caused the bough to bend and almost touch the ground. [bough: noun]
limb
Example
The tree had many limbs spreading out in different directions. [limbs: noun]
Example
He injured his limb while playing sports and had to wear a cast. [limb: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Limb is more commonly used than bough in everyday language. Limb is a versatile word that can be used to describe various branches of a tree as well as body parts. Bough, on the other hand, is less common and is typically used in the context of trees.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bough and limb?
Both bough and limb are relatively formal words, but limb is more commonly used in both formal and informal contexts due to its broader usage.
