What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
can
Example
I can swim very well. [can: modal verb]
Example
Can you pass me the can of soda? [can: noun]
Example
She can her own fruits and vegetables during harvest season. [can: verb]
tin
Example
The tin roof of the house reflected the sunlight. [tin: noun]
Example
I bought a tin of cookies from the store. [tin: noun]
Example
The can is made of tin to prevent rusting. [tin: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Can is much more common and widely used than tin. Can is a common word in everyday language and has multiple uses, while tin is less commonly used and is more specific to certain contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between can and tin?
Can is a neutral and informal word that can be used in both casual and formal contexts. Tin, on the other hand, is less common and may sound more formal or technical when used.
