What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hovel
Example
The old man lived in a hovel on the outskirts of town. [hovel: noun]
Example
She huddled in her hovel, trying to keep warm in the bitter cold. [hovel: noun]
shanty
Example
The homeless family lived in a shanty made of scrap wood and metal. [shanty: noun]
Example
He built a shanty in the woods to escape from the city and live off the land. [shanty: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shanty is more commonly used than hovel in everyday language, especially in North America. Hovel is less common and may be considered an outdated or archaic term in some contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between hovel and shanty?
Both hovel and shanty are informal words and are not typically used in formal or academic contexts.
