What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
strand
Example
She found a strand of hair on her shirt. [strand: noun]
Example
The rope was made up of several strands twisted together. [strand: noun]
Example
The hiker was stranded on the mountain after the storm. [stranded: past participle]
thread
Example
She used a red thread to sew the button back on. [thread: noun]
Example
A thread of sunlight shone through the window. [thread: noun]
Example
She carefully threaded the needle and began to sew. [threaded: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Thread is more commonly used than strand in everyday language. Thread is a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while strand is less common and has more specific uses.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between strand and thread?
Both strand and thread are relatively formal words, but thread is more commonly used in everyday language and is therefore more likely to be used in informal contexts as well.
