What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shrapnel
Example
The soldier was hit by shrapnel from the grenade. [shrapnel: noun]
Example
The shrapnel from the bomb caused extensive damage to the building. [shrapnel: noun]
fragments
Example
The vase shattered into fragments when it fell off the table. [fragments: noun]
Example
The fragments of the car were scattered all over the road after the accident. [fragments: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fragments is more commonly used than shrapnel in everyday language. Fragments is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while shrapnel is less common and is typically associated with war and military contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shrapnel and fragments?
Both shrapnel and fragments are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
