What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sinker
Example
Attach the sinker to the fishing line before adding the bait. [sinker: noun]
Example
The rock was too heavy and sank like a sinker to the bottom of the lake. [sank: past tense verb]
Example
The company's new product was a sinker, failing to meet any of its sales goals. [sinker: adjective]
donut
Example
I had a chocolate glazed donut with my coffee this morning. [donut: noun]
Example
The car had a flat tire with a donut spare in the trunk. [donut: adjective]
Example
I missed every shot and ended up with a donut score in the game. [donut: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Donut is more commonly used than sinker in everyday language, especially in American English. Donut is a popular food item and has become a cultural icon, while sinker is less common and is typically used in specific contexts related to fishing or failure.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sinker and donut?
While both sinker and donut are generally informal words, donut is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while sinker is more commonly used in informal contexts.