What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
adultery
Example
He committed adultery with his secretary and destroyed his marriage. [adultery: noun]
Example
She was accused of committing adultery and faced social ostracism. [committing: verb]
infidelity
Example
The couple's relationship was strained due to his infidelity with a coworker. [infidelity: noun]
Example
She found out about his infidelity and decided to end the relationship. [infidelity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Infidelity is more commonly used than adultery in everyday language. Infidelity is a broader term that covers various forms of betrayal, while adultery is more specific and legally charged.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between adultery and infidelity?
Adultery is more formal and legalistic than infidelity. It is often used in legal contexts, such as divorce proceedings, while infidelity is more colloquial and emotional, used in everyday conversations and personal relationships.
