What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
garbage
Example
Please take out the garbage before it starts to smell. [garbage: noun]
Example
The movie was complete garbage, I don't recommend watching it. [garbage: adjective]
junk
Example
I need to clean out my closet and get rid of all the junk. [junk: noun]
Example
The car was so old and rusty, it was basically junk. [junk: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Garbage is more commonly used in North America, while junk is more commonly used in British English. Both words are commonly used in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between garbage and junk?
Both garbage and junk are informal terms and are not typically used in formal contexts. However, garbage is more neutral and can be used in a wider range of formality levels than junk, which can have a negative connotation.
