What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
needles
Example
She threaded the needle and began to sew the patch onto her jeans. [needle: noun]
Example
I tried acupuncture for the first time and was surprised at how much the needles didn't hurt. [needles: noun]
pins
Example
She pinned the pattern to the fabric before cutting it out. [pinned: verb]
Example
He knocked down all the pins with his first ball. [pins: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pins are more commonly used than needles in everyday language. Pins are versatile and cover a wide range of contexts, while needles are more specific and often associated with sewing or medical procedures.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between needles and pins?
Both needles and pins can be used in formal and informal contexts, but needles may be more associated with medical or professional settings, while pins may be more associated with fashion or crafts.
