What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dig
Example
I need to dig a hole for the new tree. [dig: verb]
Example
The archaeologist dug up an ancient artifact. [dug: past tense]
Example
I had to dig through the pile of clothes to find my favorite shirt. [dig: phrasal verb]
burrow
Example
The rabbit burrowed a hole in the ground for its den. [burrowed: past tense]
Example
The mole burrows through the soil to find food. [burrows: present tense]
Example
The fox made a burrow in the hillside for its family. [burrow: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dig is more commonly used than burrow in everyday language. Dig is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while burrow is less common and refers specifically to the action of digging a tunnel or hole for shelter or protection.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dig and burrow?
While dig is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, burrow is more specific and can be employed in more formal contexts when referring to animal behavior or scientific research.
