What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shackled
Example
The prisoner was shackled and escorted out of the courtroom. [shackled: past participle]
Example
Her creativity was shackled by her fear of failure. [shackled: verb]
handcuff
Example
The police officer handcuffed the suspect and put him in the back of the car. [handcuffed: past participle]
Example
The strict rules of the company handcuffed her ability to innovate. [handcuff: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Handcuff is more commonly used than shackled in everyday language, especially in law enforcement contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between shackled and handcuff?
Both shackled and handcuffed are formal words that are typically used in serious or professional contexts, such as legal or criminal justice settings.
