Sometimes, it might be difficult to identify in which cases we should use a word and which cases require the use of another, yet very similar one. "Lighted" and "Lit" are two words in this situation, which can be easily confused.
Read this quick and easy explanation to understand when and where you should use "lighted" and "lit" correctly.
Lighted vs. Lit
Both words represent the past-tense forms of the word "light", which is one of the rare verbs that accept two different past-tense forms in English. Therefore, both forms are correct and represent the past action of "to light".
The difference between them, though, is how they are used in the sentence, as they can work both as a verb and as an adjective.
When do we use "lighted"?
Obtained by adding "-ed" at the end of the present form of the verb "to light", "lighted" is the regular past-tense form and can be used both as a verb and as an adjective correctly. According to how the sentence sounds to you, you can choose to use "lighted" anytime, without worrying you might be wrong.
When do we use "lit"?
Lit is considered to be the irregular form of the past-tense for the verb "to light" and is mostly used as a verb, rather than as an adjective. Even so, it is not wrong to use it as an adjective as well. So you should only count on your instinct if you should or should not use this form of the verb, with no doubt that you could be wrong.
Conclusion
When and in which context you use "lighted" or "lit" is completely up to you. There are no statistics to show whether a version is preferred for another in certain cases, regions or in American/British English. It is only a matter of choice and the only thing you should remember is that neither "lighted", nor "lit" will ever be considered grammatically wrong in your expressions.
Have a discussion about this article with the community:
Report Comment
We're doing our best to make sure our content is useful, accurate and safe.
If by any chance you spot an inappropriate comment while navigating through our website please use this form to let us know, and we'll take care of it shortly.
Attachment
You need to be logged in to favorite.
Log In