What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lariat
Example
The cowboy expertly threw the lariat around the calf's neck. [lariat: noun]
Example
She coiled the lariat neatly and hung it on the fence post. [lariat: noun]
lasso
Example
The cowboy skillfully lassoed the runaway horse. [lasso: verb]
Example
He held the lasso tightly, ready to catch the next calf. [lasso: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lasso is more commonly used than lariat in everyday language, especially outside of the United States. However, both words are still used and understood by English speakers.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lariat and lasso?
Neither lariat nor lasso is particularly formal or informal, and both can be used in a variety of contexts.
