Just when you think I’m going to be writing this tip about a guy named Hank who may or may not be a dreamy hunk, think again.
There are two words that mean a section of something, and these two words are “hank” and “hunk”; however, there’s a big difference between their two meanings. And it has nothing to do with their dreaminess factor.
For example, if you had a tangle of yarn, you’d have a hank of yarn, not a hunk of yarn. Do you know why?
- A “hank” is a coil, knot, or loop, often of a definite length. You can have a hank of yarn or a hank of hair.
- A “hunk” is a piece or portion. You can have a hunk of cheese or a hunk of clay.
If it resembles threads, cords, or twine, use “hank.” If it’s a big chunk of something that’s not stringy, use “hunk.”
Of course,
- “Hank” is also a male name, often a shortened form of “Henry.”
- A “hunk” is also a studmuffin.
A Hank may be a hunk, but that’s beside the point of this reminder.
Happy writing, folks!
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