What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hamshackle
Example
The old shed was hamshackle, with crooked walls and a leaky roof. [hamshackle: adjective]
Example
The chair was so hamshackle that it collapsed when I sat on it. [hamshackle: adjective]
ramshackle
Example
The ramshackle house had a sagging roof and broken windows. [ramshackle: adjective]
Example
The old barn was so ramshackle that it was in danger of collapsing. [ramshackle: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ramshackle is more commonly used than hamshackle in everyday language. Ramshackle is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while hamshackle is less common and may not be recognized by all English speakers.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hamshackle and ramshackle?
Both hamshackle and ramshackle are informal words that are typically used in casual conversation or writing. They are not appropriate for formal or academic writing.
