What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
active
Example
She's an active person who enjoys hiking and swimming. [active: adjective]
Example
The company has been active in the market for over a decade. [active: adjective]
Example
The volcano is still active and could erupt at any moment. [active: adjective]
lively
Example
The party was lively with people dancing and chatting. [lively: adjective]
Example
The band played a lively tune that got everyone on their feet. [lively: adjective]
Example
The discussion became lively as people shared their opinions. [lively: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Active is more common than lively in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications and contexts. However, lively is still a useful word to know, especially when describing social situations or entertainment.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between active and lively?
Both active and lively can be used in formal and informal contexts, but active is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations, including professional settings.
