What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shred
Example
Can you shred the lettuce for the salad? [shred: verb]
Example
The company shredded all of its old documents. [shredded: past tense]
Example
I accidentally shredded my shirt on a nail. [shredded: past participle]
slice
Example
Can you slice the bread for me, please? [slice: verb]
Example
She sliced the apple into thin pieces. [sliced: past tense]
Example
The chef used a sharp knife to slice the steak. [slice: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Slice is more commonly used than shred in everyday language. Slice is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while shred is less common and often associated with paper or document destruction.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shred and slice?
While slice can be used in both formal and informal contexts, shred is typically associated with a more casual or informal tone, especially when referring to physical activities like tearing or ripping something apart.
