What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
totaled
Example
The car was totaled in the accident and had to be scrapped. [totaled: past tense]
Example
The cost of the repairs would have exceeded the value of the car, so it was declared totaled. [totaled: past participle]
wrecked
Example
The driver was lucky to escape with minor injuries after his car was wrecked in the crash. [wrecked: past participle]
Example
The storm wrecked the house, leaving it uninhabitable. [wrecked: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Totaled is more commonly used in American English, while wrecked is more commonly used in British English. Both words are less common in everyday language and are more likely to be used in specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between totaled and wrecked?
Totaled is more formal and technical, often used in the context of insurance claims or legal proceedings. Wrecked is more informal and colloquial, suitable for everyday conversation or informal writing.
