What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hem
Example
She hemmed the bottom of her dress to make it shorter. [hem: verb]
Example
The hem on this shirt is coming undone. [hem: noun]
perimeter
Example
The perimeter of the rectangle is equal to the sum of all its sides. [perimeter: noun]
Example
The police officer walked around the perimeter of the crime scene. [perimeter: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Perimeter is more commonly used than hem in everyday language, particularly in academic or technical contexts. Hem is more specific and is primarily used in the context of sewing or finishing clothing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hem and perimeter?
Perimeter is generally considered more formal than hem, as it is used in academic and technical contexts. Hem is more casual and is associated with sewing and fashion.
