What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
slingshot
Example
He shot a pebble with his slingshot. [slingshot: noun]
Example
The kids had fun playing with their slingshots in the park. [slingshots: plural noun]
shanghai
Example
He was shanghaied into working on the ship. [shanghaied: past tense verb]
Example
The gangsters shanghaied the businessman for ransom. [shanghai: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Slingshot is more commonly used than shanghai in everyday language. Slingshot is a common word used in various contexts, including play, hunting, and self-defense. On the other hand, shanghai is less common and has a negative connotation associated with coercion or kidnapping.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between slingshot and shanghai?
Neither slingshot nor shanghai are particularly formal words. However, shanghai may be considered more informal due to its negative connotation and association with criminal activity.
