What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
punk
Example
He's such a punk, always breaking the rules and causing trouble. [punk: noun]
Example
The movie was so bad, it was a total punk. [punk: adjective]
Example
The punk kids in the neighborhood keep vandalizing the park. [punk: adjective]
ruffian
Example
The ruffians in the alleyway were causing a disturbance. [ruffians: noun]
Example
He's a ruffian who likes to pick fights and cause trouble. [ruffian: adjective]
Example
The ruffian behavior at the party was unacceptable. [ruffian: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ruffian is less common than punk in everyday language. Punk is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ruffian is more specific and often used in formal or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between punk and ruffian?
Ruffian is typically associated with a more formal or literary tone, while punk is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
