What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
anachronism
Example
The use of a typewriter in a modern office would be considered an anachronism. [anachronism: noun]
Example
The character's dialogue was full of anachronisms, making it difficult to believe the story was set in the 18th century. [anachronisms: plural noun]
relic
Example
The museum had a collection of ancient relics from Egypt. [relics: plural noun]
Example
The old church was filled with relics of saints and holy figures. [relics: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Relic is more commonly used than anachronism in everyday language. Relic is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while anachronism is less common and often used in academic or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between anachronism and relic?
Both anachronism and relic are formal words, but relic is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while anachronism is more commonly used in academic or literary contexts.
