Understanding the Difference Between Wack and Whack: Definitions, Usage, and Examples

Wack vs. Whack

Sometimes, words sound the same but have different meanings. “Wack” and “whack” are two such words. Let’s look at each word to see what they mean and how we use them.

Wack

“Wack” is a slang word. It means something is not good, strange, or not normal. People use it to say something is weird or bad in some way.

The word “wack” came from American urban slang, mostly in the late 20th century. It became part of hip-hop culture.

How to use “wack”:

• That movie was wack; I didn’t like it at all.
• His new song sounds wack.
• This game is wack; it’s too hard to play.
• The food here is wack.
• Her plan is wack; it won’t work.

Remember: Wack = Strange or bad

Whack

“Whack” is a different word. It means to hit something or someone. It is a loud and hard hit.

The word “whack” has been around for a long time and is more traditional English, often used in stories and everyday language.

How to use “whack”:

• He gave the ball a good whack with the bat.
• I heard a whack at the door.
• Don’t whack your brother with that stick!
• The carpenter whacked the nail into the wood.
• He got a whack on the head and fell down.

Remember: Whack = Hit hard

Summary

To sum up, “wack” is a slang term for something bad or strange. “Whack” means to hit something hard. They sound similar, but they have very different meanings. So, remember: if something is “wack,” it’s not good. If you “whack” something, you hit it hard!