What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
knickers
Example
She wore a pair of lacy knickers under her dress. [knickers: noun]
Example
I like to wear knickers when I go cycling. [knickers: noun]
Example
In the old days, boys used to wear knickers as part of their school uniform. [knickers: noun]
shorts
Example
He wore a pair of denim shorts to the beach. [shorts: noun]
Example
I like to wear shorts when I play basketball. [shorts: noun]
Example
The movie was a series of shorts, each one only a few minutes long. [shorts: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shorts are more commonly used and recognized than knickers in everyday language. Shorts are versatile and can be worn in various contexts, while knickers are less common and typically associated with women's undergarments or specific sports.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between knickers and shorts?
Neither knickers nor shorts are particularly formal. However, knickers may be considered more intimate or personal due to their association with women's undergarments.
