What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
skein
Example
She bought a skein of wool to knit a sweater. [skein: noun]
Example
The skein of geese flew overhead, honking loudly. [skein: noun]
Example
The conversation turned into a skein of arguments and misunderstandings. [skein: noun]
coil
Example
He coiled the rope neatly on the deck of the boat. [coil: verb]
Example
The snake coiled itself around the tree branch, ready to strike. [coiled: past participle]
Example
The tension in the room coiled like a spring, waiting for someone to speak up. [coiled: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Coil is more commonly used than skein in everyday language. Coil is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while skein is less common and more specific to the world of yarn and thread.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between skein and coil?
Both skein and coil are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
