What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tup
Example
The ram will tup the ewes during breeding season. [tup: verb]
Example
I heard a loud tup when the ball hit the wall. [tup: noun]
Example
She gave the door a gentle tup with her hand. [tup: noun]
hit
Example
He hit the ball out of the park for a home run. [hit: verb]
Example
The boxer was hit hard in the face and fell to the ground. [hit: verb]
Example
The company hit its sales target for the quarter. [hit: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Hit is much more commonly used than tup in everyday language, and is versatile enough to be used in a wide range of contexts. Tup is more specialized and less common, and is typically only used in specific contexts related to sheep mating or gentle touches.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tup and hit?
Hit is generally considered more formal and acceptable in everyday language, while tup may be considered more informal or specialized due to its limited use and association with sheep mating.