What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sinew
Example
The hunter's sinews bulged as he drew back the bowstring. [sinews: noun]
Example
She showed incredible sinew in her arms as she lifted the heavy weight. [sinew: adjective]
tendon
Example
He tore his Achilles tendon while playing basketball. [tendon: noun]
Example
Her tendons were stretched and ready for action. [tendons: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tendon is more commonly used than sinew in everyday language. Tendon is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while sinew is less common and refers to a specific type of connective tissue in larger muscles.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sinew and tendon?
Both sinew and tendon are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
