What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
chapped
Example
Her lips were chapped from being out in the cold wind. [chapped: adjective]
Example
He applied lip balm to soothe his chapped lips. [chapped: past participle]
cracked
Example
Her heels were cracked from walking barefoot on rough surfaces. [cracked: adjective]
Example
He used a moisturizer to heal his cracked hands. [cracked: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Chapped is more commonly used than cracked in everyday language, especially when referring to dry and rough skin on the lips or hands. Cracked is more specific and may be used in contexts where there is visible damage or splits in the skin.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between chapped and cracked?
Both chapped and cracked can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, chapped is more versatile and commonly used, while cracked may be more specific and slightly less common.
