What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gangly
Example
The gangly teenager struggled to find clothes that fit his long arms and legs. [gangly: adjective]
Example
She moved in a gangly manner, tripping over her own feet. [gangly: adverb]
lanky
Example
The lanky basketball player towered over his opponents on the court. [lanky: adjective]
Example
He walked with a lanky gait, his arms and legs flailing about. [lanky: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lanky is more commonly used than gangly in everyday language, and it is more versatile in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gangly and lanky?
Both gangly and lanky are informal and casual in tone, and they are not typically used in formal contexts.
