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Burned vs Burnt
Difference, Examples & Quiz

What's the difference? Which one is correct?

Burned

Definition: Burned is the past tense and past participle of the verb burn. It means to be damaged or destroyed by fire or heat.

Usage: Burned is commonly used to describe something that has been set on fire or exposed to high temperatures.

Example sentences:
  • 1. The house burned down in a massive fire.
  • 2. She burned her hand on the hot stove.
  • 3. The forest was burned to clear the land for farming.
Burnt

Definition: Burnt is an alternative past tense and past participle of the verb burn. It also means to be damaged or destroyed by fire or heat.

Usage: Burnt is less commonly used than burned, but it is still widely understood and accepted.

Example sentences:
  • 1. The toast got burnt in the toaster.
  • 2. He accidentally burnt the dinner while cooking.
  • 3. The old building was burnt to the ground.

The words 'burned' and 'burnt' are both past tense forms of the verb 'burn.' They are used interchangeably in most contexts, with 'burned' being more common in American English and 'burnt' being more common in British English. Both forms are correct and can be used to describe something that has been subjected to fire or heat.

Quizzes about "Burned" vs "Burnt"

Burned vs Burnt: 5 Quizzes

1. What is the past tense of 'burn'?

2. Which is the correct spelling?

3. Which form is commonly used in American English?

4. Which form is commonly used in British English?

5. Which form is considered more formal?

FAQs

  • What does 'burned' mean?

    The past tense of 'burn', which refers to the act of setting something on fire or subjecting it to high temperatures.

  • What does 'burnt' mean?

    The past tense of 'burn', which refers to the act of setting something on fire or subjecting it to high temperatures.

  • Is 'burned' the same as 'burnt'?

    Yes, both 'burned' and 'burnt' are past tense forms of the verb 'burn' and can be used interchangeably.

  • Can 'burned' and 'burnt' be used in any context?

    Both 'burned' and 'burnt' can be used in most contexts, but 'burned' is more commonly used in American English, while 'burnt' is more commonly used in British English.

  • Are there any other synonyms for 'burned' or 'burnt'?

    Yes, some synonyms for 'burned' or 'burnt' include 'scorched', 'charred', and 'incinerated'.