What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tarry
Example
Let's tarry a bit longer and enjoy the sunset. [tarry: verb]
Example
The travelers decided to tarry in the small town for a few days. [tarry: verb]
Example
She was tarrying at the bus stop, waiting for her friend. [tarrying: gerund or present participle]
procrastinate
Example
I tend to procrastinate when it comes to doing my homework. [procrastinate: verb]
Example
He has been procrastinating on making a decision about his job offer. [procrastinating: gerund or present participle]
Example
Procrastination can lead to unnecessary stress and missed opportunities. [procrastination: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Procrastinate is more commonly used than tarry in everyday language. Procrastinate is a common term used to describe the habit of delaying or avoiding tasks or responsibilities. Tarry is less common and refers to a temporary stay or delay in a place.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tarry and procrastinate?
Both tarry and procrastinate are relatively informal words. However, procrastinate is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
