What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bums
Example
The city has a problem with bums sleeping in the park. [bums: noun]
Example
He used to be a successful businessman, but now he's just a bum on the streets. [bum: noun]
hobo
Example
During the Great Depression, many people became hobos, traveling in search of work. [hobos: noun]
Example
He decided to become a hobo and explore the country by train. [hobo: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bums is more commonly used in everyday language, while hobo is less common and may be considered outdated. Bums is a more versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while hobo is more specific and has a historical connotation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between bums and hobo?
Both bums and hobo are informal terms, but bums is more commonly used in casual conversations, while hobo may be used in more specific or historical contexts.