What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cling
Example
The child clung to their mother's leg, not wanting her to leave. [cling: verb]
Example
The wet clothes clung to her body after she got caught in the rain. [clung: past tense]
clasp
Example
She clasped her hands together in prayer. [clasp: verb]
Example
He wore a belt with a silver clasp. [clasp: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clasp is more commonly used than cling in everyday language. Clasp is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while cling is less common and often used in specific situations involving attachment or adherence.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cling and clasp?
While cling is typically associated with a more informal tone, clasp can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Clasp is more commonly used in professional or official settings when referring to holding or fastening objects together.
