What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prune
Example
I need to prune the rose bushes in my garden. [prune: verb]
Example
The gardener pruned the tree to keep it from growing too tall. [pruned: past tense]
clip
Example
I need to clip my nails before they get too long. [clip: verb]
Example
The stylist clipped the ends of my hair to give it a more layered look. [clipped: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clip is more commonly used than prune in everyday language. Clip is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while prune is less common and refers specifically to the act of cutting back branches or stems of a plant.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between prune and clip?
While prune is typically associated with a more serious or professional tone, clip can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in a wider range of situations.