What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shim
Example
I need a shim to level this table. [shim: noun]
Example
He shimmied the door with a piece of cardboard to keep it from rattling. [shimmed: past tense verb]
wedge
Example
She used a wedge to keep the door open. [wedge: noun]
Example
He wedged the chair under the doorknob to keep it closed. [wedged: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Wedge is more commonly used than shim in everyday language. Wedge is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while shim is less common and mainly used in construction or DIY projects.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shim and wedge?
Both shim and wedge are typically associated with a casual and informal tone, and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
