What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wornout
Example
The old couch was so worn out that it was uncomfortable to sit on. [worn out: adjective]
Example
After working long hours, I feel completely worn out. [worn out: adjective]
Example
The shirt was so worn out that it had holes in it. [worn out: adjective]
shabby
Example
The house looked shabby with its peeling paint and broken windows. [shabby: adjective]
Example
The neighborhood was shabby and rundown, with abandoned buildings and littered streets. [shabby: adjective]
Example
He showed up to the party in a shabby suit and uncombed hair. [shabby: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shabby is more commonly used than worn out in everyday language. Shabby is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while worn out is less common and is typically used to describe specific items or objects.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between wornout and shabby?
Both worn out and shabby are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.
