What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shrug
Example
I don't know the answer to that question, so I just shrugged my shoulders. [shrugged: past tense]
Example
When asked about the new policy, she just shrugged and said she didn't care. [shrugged: verb]
ignore
Example
He chose to ignore the warning signs and continued with his reckless behavior. [ignore: verb]
Example
She felt ignored by her colleagues and left out of important decisions. [ignored: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ignore is more commonly used than shrug in everyday language. Ignore is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts and situations, while shrug is less common and often used in specific situations where uncertainty or resignation is being conveyed.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shrug and ignore?
While shrug is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, ignore can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be employed in a wide range of situations.
