What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wane
Example
The popularity of the band began to wane after their third album. [wane: verb]
Example
As the night wore on, his enthusiasm for the party began to wane. [wane: verb]
Example
The moon is beginning to wane, and it will soon be a new moon. [wane: verb]
ebb
Example
The tide began to ebb, and the boats were stranded on the sandbar. [ebb: verb]
Example
His energy began to ebb as the day wore on. [ebb: verb]
Example
The fortunes of the company began to ebb after the CEO resigned. [ebb: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ebb is slightly more common than wane in everyday language, as it can be used in a wider range of contexts, including literal and figurative meanings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wane and ebb?
Both wane and ebb are relatively formal words, but wane may have a slightly more literary or poetic connotation compared to ebb, which is more practical and everyday.
