What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tangled
Example
Her hair was so tangled that it took her an hour to brush it out. [tangled: adjective]
Example
The cords behind the computer were so tangled that it was hard to figure out which one went where. [tangled: past participle]
jumbled
Example
The books on the shelf were jumbled together with no apparent order. [jumbled: adjective]
Example
The room was so jumbled with toys and clothes that it was hard to walk through. [jumbled: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Jumbled is more commonly used than tangled in everyday language. Jumbled is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while tangled is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tangled and jumbled?
Both tangled and jumbled are informal words and can be used in casual conversations or writing. However, tangled may be more commonly used in technical or specialized contexts, such as in the field of electrical engineering or hairdressing.
