What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tangle
Example
I need to untangle my headphones before I can listen to music. [tangle: verb]
Example
The company found itself in a tangled web of legal issues. [tangled: adjective]
Example
The two wrestlers were tangled up on the mat. [tangled: verb]
entangle
Example
The bird became entangled in the fishing line. [entangled: verb]
Example
I don't want to get entangled in their family drama. [entangle: verb]
Example
The hiker's foot became entangled in the roots of a tree. [entangled: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tangle is more commonly used than entangle in everyday language. Tangle is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while entangle is less common and often used in more formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tangle and entangle?
Entangle is typically associated with a more formal or technical tone, while tangle is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
