What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mess
Example
The room was a mess, with clothes and papers scattered everywhere. [mess: noun]
Example
I made a mess in the kitchen while trying to cook dinner. [mess: verb]
jumble
Example
The box was filled with a jumble of old toys and books. [jumble: noun]
Example
Her thoughts were a jumble, making it hard for her to focus. [jumble: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mess is more commonly used than jumble in everyday language, especially when referring to physical disorder. Jumble is less common and is often used in more specific contexts, such as puzzles or mental states.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between mess and jumble?
Both mess and jumble are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.
