What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
filled
Example
The jar was filled to the brim with candy. [filled: past tense]
Example
She felt filled with joy after receiving the good news. [filled: past participle]
Example
He was filled with excitement for his upcoming trip. [filled: adjective]
full
Example
The gas tank was full and ready for the long drive. [full: adjective]
Example
I am full after eating a big meal. [full: adjective]
Example
The bookshelf was full of books on various topics. [full: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Full is more commonly used than filled in everyday language. Full is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while filled is less common and refers to a specific state of being.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between filled and full?
Both filled and full are relatively formal words and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.