What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
scuffle
Example
The two boys scuffled in the playground over a toy. [scuffled: past tense]
Example
He scuffled to his feet after tripping on the stairs. [scuffled: verb]
Example
The protesters scuffled with the police during the demonstration. [scuffled: past participle]
shuffle
Example
The old man shuffled down the street with his cane. [shuffled: past tense]
Example
She shuffled the deck of cards before dealing them out. [shuffled: verb]
Example
He tried to shuffle away from the group unnoticed. [shuffle: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shuffle is more commonly used than scuffle in everyday language. Shuffle is versatile and can be used in various contexts, such as shuffling cards or shuffling down the street. On the other hand, scuffle is less common and is typically associated with a negative or violent situation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between scuffle and shuffle?
Both scuffle and shuffle are informal words, but shuffle can be used in more formal contexts, such as shuffling papers or shuffling employees around. Scuffle, however, is typically reserved for casual or colloquial situations.
