What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
aboriginal
Example
The aboriginal people of Australia have a rich cultural heritage. [aboriginal: adjective]
Example
The aboriginals were forced to leave their ancestral lands due to the arrival of colonizers. [aboriginals: noun]
indigenous
Example
The indigenous tribes of the Amazon rainforest have a deep connection to the natural world. [indigenous: adjective]
Example
The government is working to protect the rights of the indigenous people and preserve their culture. [indigenous: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Indigenous is more commonly used than aboriginal in global contexts. While aboriginal is more specific to certain regions, indigenous has a wider usage and is recognized in many countries around the world.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between aboriginal and indigenous?
Both aboriginal and indigenous can be used in formal and informal contexts, but aboriginal may be considered less formal due to its association with colloquial language in some regions.
