What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hitchhiker
Example
The hitchhiker stood on the side of the road with his thumb out. [hitchhiker: noun]
Example
She decided to become a hitchhiker and travel across the country. [hitchhiker: noun]
thumb
Example
He decided to thumb a ride to the next town. [thumb: verb]
Example
She stuck out her thumb and waited for a car to stop. [thumb: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hitchhiker is more commonly used than thumb in everyday language, especially when referring to a person who is actively seeking a ride.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hitchhiker and thumb?
Hitchhiker is more formal than thumb, which is more casual and less commonly used in formal contexts.
