What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
snarl
Example
The cat's fur was in a snarl after it got into a fight with another cat. [snarl: noun]
Example
He snarled at me when I asked him to move his car. [snarled: verb]
tangle
Example
I spent hours trying to untangle the Christmas lights. [tangle: verb]
Example
The negotiations between the two countries were a tangled mess. [tangle: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tangle is more commonly used than snarl in everyday language. Tangle is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while snarl is less common and has more specific uses.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between snarl and tangle?
Both snarl and tangle are relatively informal words, but tangle can be used in more formal contexts due to its versatility and broader range of meanings.