What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prehensile
Example
The monkey's prehensile tail allowed it to swing from branch to branch. [prehensile: adjective]
Example
She had prehensile fingers that could easily pick up small objects. [prehensile: adjective]
gripping
Example
The book was so gripping that I couldn't put it down until I finished it. [gripping: adjective]
Example
He had a gripping hold on the steering wheel as he drove through the storm. [gripping: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gripping is more commonly used than prehensile in everyday language. Gripping is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while prehensile is more specific and technical.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prehensile and gripping?
Prehensile is more formal and technical, while gripping is more informal and commonly used in everyday language.
