What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decrepit
Example
The decrepit old house was falling apart at the seams. [decrepit: adjective]
Example
The decrepit old man struggled to walk without assistance. [decrepit: adjective]
Example
The decrepit car broke down on the side of the road. [decrepit: adjective]
shabby
Example
The shabby old couch had seen better days. [shabby: adjective]
Example
He showed up to the interview in shabby clothes and was not hired. [shabby: adjective]
Example
The shabby motel room was dirty and smelled bad. [shabby: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shabby is more commonly used than decrepit in everyday language. Shabby is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while decrepit is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between decrepit and shabby?
Both decrepit and shabby are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.
