What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
entwining
Example
The vines were entwining around the tree trunk. [entwining: verb]
Example
She was entwining her fingers together nervously. [entwining: present participle]
intertwine
Example
The fates of the two characters were intertwined throughout the novel. [intertwined: past tense]
Example
The history of art and politics are often intertwined. [intertwine: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Intertwine is more commonly used than entwining in everyday language, due to its versatility and broader range of usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between entwining and intertwine?
Both entwining and intertwine are relatively formal words, but intertwine may be slightly more formal due to its broader range of usage and deeper connotation.