What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wornout
Example
These shoes are so worn out, I need to buy a new pair. [worn out: adjective]
Example
After working for 12 hours straight, I feel completely worn out. [worn out: adjective]
Example
The couch in the living room is so worn out, it's time to replace it. [worn out: adjective]
tattered
Example
The book was so tattered that it fell apart when I opened it. [tattered: adjective]
Example
He wore a tattered shirt with holes in it. [tattered: adjective]
Example
The flag was tattered and torn after being left outside in the wind and rain. [tattered: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Worn out is more commonly used in everyday language than tattered. Worn out is versatile and can be used to describe a wide range of objects and people, while tattered is more specific and is typically used to describe clothing or objects with visible tears or frays.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between wornout and tattered?
Both worn out and tattered are informal words and are not typically used in formal contexts.
