What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
yarn
Example
I bought some colorful yarn to knit a scarf. [yarn: noun]
Example
The author spun a yarn about a magical land filled with talking animals. [spun: past tense verb]
thread
Example
I need to buy some thread to sew a button on my shirt. [thread: noun]
Example
The thread of the conversation was about the importance of education. [thread: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Thread is more commonly used than yarn in everyday language. Thread is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while yarn is less common and refers to a specific type of material used for crafting.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between yarn and thread?
Both yarn and thread are relatively informal words, but thread may be slightly more formal due to its association with sewing and embroidery, which can be seen as more formal activities.
