What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cotter
Example
The cotter pin held the wheel in place. [cotter: noun]
Example
He used a hammer to insert the cotter into the hole. [cotter: verb]
pin
Example
She used a pin to secure her hair in a bun. [pin: noun]
Example
He pinned the fabric together before sewing it. [pin: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pin is more commonly used than cotter in everyday language. Pin is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while cotter is less common and is primarily used in machinery and construction.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cotter and pin?
Both cotter and pin are typically associated with a technical or specialized tone and are used in formal contexts, such as engineering or construction.
