What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
yarn
Example
I bought some yarn to knit a sweater. [yarn: noun]
Example
She spun a yarn about her adventures in the jungle. [spun: verb]
cotton
Example
This shirt is made of 100% cotton. [cotton: noun]
Example
I love the feeling of cotton sheets against my skin. [cotton: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cotton is more commonly used than yarn in everyday language, as it is a common material for clothing and textiles. However, yarn is still widely used in crafting and creative projects.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between yarn and cotton?
Cotton is generally considered more formal than yarn, as it is associated with clothing and textiles which are often used in professional settings. Yarn is more commonly used in casual or creative contexts.