What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
twine
Example
I need some twine to tie up these packages. [twine: noun]
Example
He twined the rope around the post to secure it. [twined: past tense verb]
yarn
Example
She bought a skein of yarn to knit a sweater. [yarn: noun]
Example
Grandma used to yarn her own wool for knitting. [yarn: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Yarn is more commonly used than twine in everyday language. Yarn is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while twine is less common and refers to a specific type of string used for tying or binding things together.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between twine and yarn?
Both twine and yarn are relatively informal words, but twine may be slightly more associated with practical and functional contexts, while yarn may be more associated with creative and artistic contexts.