What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
taut
Example
The sail was taut in the wind. [taut: adjective]
Example
The atmosphere in the room was taut with anticipation. [taut: adjective]
Example
She held her body taut as she prepared to jump. [taut: adverb]
tight
Example
The lid was screwed on tight. [tight: adverb]
Example
The room was so tight that it was difficult to move around. [tight: adjective]
Example
These jeans are too tight for me. [tight: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tight is more commonly used than taut in everyday language, especially when referring to clothing or spaces. Taut is less common and is typically used in more formal or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between taut and tight?
Taut has a more formal or technical connotation than tight, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
