What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cribble
Example
I couldn't read his note because it was just a bunch of cribbled words. [cribbled: past tense]
Example
She quickly cribbled down the phone number on a piece of paper before hanging up. [cribbling: gerund or present participle]
scrawl
Example
The doctor's prescription was a scrawl that I could barely read. [scrawl: noun]
Example
He scrawled his name on the paper without taking much care. [scrawled: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Scrawl is more commonly used than cribble in everyday language. Scrawl is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while cribble is less common and mainly used to describe handwriting or drawing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cribble and scrawl?
Both cribble and scrawl are informal words that are not typically used in formal writing or speech.
