What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
muscled
Example
The bodybuilder's arms were heavily muscled. [muscled: adjective]
Example
He muscled the heavy box onto the shelf. [muscled: verb]
sinewy
Example
The gymnast had sinewy arms that allowed her to perform difficult maneuvers. [sinewy: adjective]
Example
The snake's sinewy body slithered through the grass. [sinewy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Muscled is more commonly used than sinewy in everyday language, especially in the context of bodybuilding or weightlifting. Sinewy is less common but can be used to describe athletes or dancers.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between muscled and sinewy?
Both muscled and sinewy are informal words that are more likely to be used in casual conversation than in formal writing or speech.