What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
undone
Example
I left the dishes undone in the sink. [undone: adjective]
Example
She left the painting undone and never finished it. [undone: adjective]
Example
He had many tasks undone on his to-do list. [undone: adjective]
unfinished
Example
The book was left unfinished when the author passed away. [unfinished: adjective]
Example
The construction site was filled with unfinished buildings. [unfinished: adjective]
Example
She had an unfinished essay due the next day. [unfinished: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Unfinished is more commonly used than undone in everyday language. Unfinished is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while undone is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between undone and unfinished?
Both undone and unfinished are relatively informal words, but unfinished may be slightly more formal due to its versatility and ability to be used in various contexts.