What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hag
Example
The old hag scared the children with her cackling laugh. [hag: noun]
Example
She looked like a hag with her wrinkled skin and crooked nose. [hag: adjective]
shrew
Example
She was such a shrew, always complaining about everything. [shrew: noun]
Example
The shrew scurried across the garden, looking for insects to eat. [shrew: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shrew is more commonly used than hag in everyday language, especially when referring to a nagging or bad-tempered woman. Hag is less common and often used in literature or mythology.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hag and shrew?
Both hag and shrew are informal words and should be avoided in formal settings. However, hag may be considered more informal due to its supernatural or mythical connotation.
