What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tatter
Example
The old flag was in tatters after years of exposure to the elements. [tatters: noun]
Example
The hem of her dress was tattered and frayed. [tattered: adjective]
shred
Example
She shredded the documents to protect her privacy. [shredded: verb]
Example
The cat shredded the curtains with its claws. [shredded: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shred is more commonly used than tatter in everyday language. Shred is versatile and can be used for a wide range of objects, while tatter is less common and is typically used to describe clothing or fabric.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between tatter and shred?
Both tatter and shred are informal words, but shred can be used in more formal contexts when referring to the destruction of documents or sensitive information.
