What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
darn
Example
I need to darn this sock before I wear it again. [darn: verb]
Example
She spent the afternoon darning her favorite sweater. [darning: gerund or present participle]
sew
Example
I need to sew a button back onto my shirt. [sew: verb]
Example
She enjoys sewing her own clothes and accessories. [sewing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sew is a more commonly used term than darn in everyday language. Sew is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while darn is a more specific term that is used less frequently.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between darn and sew?
Both darn and sew can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but sew is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
