What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sprain
Example
I sprained my ankle while playing basketball. [sprained: past tense]
Example
The doctor said I have a sprain in my wrist and advised me to rest it. [sprain: noun]
tear
Example
I tore a muscle in my leg while running. [tore: past tense]
Example
The physical therapist diagnosed me with a tear in my shoulder and recommended some exercises to help with the recovery. [tear: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sprain is more commonly used than tear in everyday language, as it is a more common injury that can occur during sports or physical activity. Tear is less common and may be used more in medical or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sprain and tear?
Both sprain and tear are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
