What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spin
Example
The ball spun around on the table. [spin: verb]
Example
She spun around to face him. [spun: past tense]
Example
The car spun out of control on the icy road. [spun: past participle]
whirl
Example
The leaves were caught in a whirl of wind. [whirl: noun]
Example
She whirled around to see who was behind her. [whirled: past tense]
Example
The dancer whirled across the stage in a blur of motion. [whirled: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spin is more commonly used than whirl in everyday language. Spin is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while whirl is less common and often used in more specific or dramatic situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between spin and whirl?
Both spin and whirl are relatively informal words, but spin may be slightly more neutral and technical, making it more appropriate for formal contexts.
