Ton vs Tun: Heavy Stuff or Big Jug?

Difference Between “Ton” and “Tun”

History

The words “ton” and “tun” have old roots. “Ton” comes from an Old English word “tunne,” which means a measure of weight. “Tun” also comes from the Old English word “tunne,” but it means a big container for liquids like wine or beer.

How to Use Them

We use “ton” to talk about weight. It usually means 2,000 pounds in the U.S. or 2,240 pounds in the UK. We use “tun” to talk about a big container. It holds liquids like beer or wine.

Trick to Remember the Difference

One way to remember is to think of “ton” as a measure of “tons” of weight. “Tun” sounds like “tub” and holds liquids.

Examples of “Ton”

1. The truck can carry one ton of sand.
2. She lifted a ton of books.
3. The elephant weighs about six tons.
4. We moved a ton of furniture.
5. A ton of coal fell off the train.

Examples of “Tun”

1. The wine was stored in a large tun.
2. The old brewery had many tuns.
3. A wooden tun in the cellar held the beer.
4. He filled the tun with water.
5. The tun was too heavy to lift.

Summary

To sum up, “ton” means a lot of weight, and “tun” means a large container for liquids. Use “ton” when talking about how heavy something is, and use “tun” when talking about storing beer, wine, or other liquids.