What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mend
Example
I need to mend this hole in my shirt before I wear it again. [mend: verb]
Example
They were able to mend their friendship after a big fight. [mend: verb]
Example
It took a long time for her broken heart to mend after the breakup. [mend: verb]
repair
Example
I need to take my car to the mechanic to repair the engine. [repair: verb]
Example
The company hired contractors to repair the damage to the office building. [repair: verb]
Example
The technician was able to repair the computer and get it working again. [repair: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Repair is a more common word than mend in everyday language. Repair is used in a wide range of contexts, while mend is less common and often used in specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mend and repair?
Both mend and repair can be used in formal and informal contexts, but repair may be seen as more technical or professional in tone.
