What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ratty
Example
He's been in a ratty mood all day. [ratty: adjective]
Example
The old couch looked ratty and uncomfortable. [ratty: adjective]
Example
She showed up to the party looking ratty and disheveled. [ratty: adjective]
tatty
Example
The book's cover was tatty and torn. [tatty: adjective]
Example
He showed up to the interview looking tatty and unprofessional. [tatty: adjective]
Example
Her fashion sense is a bit tatty and outdated. [tatty: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tatty is more commonly used in British English, while ratty is more commonly used in American English. Both words are less common than other synonyms like 'shabby' or 'worn-out.'
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ratty and tatty?
Both ratty and tatty are informal and casual words that are not typically used in formal contexts.
