What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hanker
Example
I can't help but hanker after that new car. [hanker: verb]
Example
She had always hankered after a life of luxury and excess. [hankered: past tense]
yearn
Example
He yearned for her love and affection. [yearned: past tense]
Example
The child yearned for the comfort of his mother's embrace. [yearn: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Yearn is more commonly used than hanker in everyday language, and is a more versatile word that can be used in a wider range of contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between hanker and yearn?
Both hanker and yearn are considered formal words, and are more likely to be used in written or literary contexts than in casual conversation.
