What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
anecdote
Example
My grandfather always tells the same anecdote about his time in the army. [anecdote: noun]
Example
She shared an amusing anecdote about her recent trip to the beach. [anecdote: adjective]
account
Example
The newspaper published an account of the accident. [account: noun]
Example
He gave a detailed account of his travels to the committee. [account: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Account is more commonly used than anecdote in formal or professional settings, such as journalism or business. However, anecdote is more commonly used in casual or social situations, such as storytelling among friends or family.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between anecdote and account?
Account is generally more formal than anecdote, which is often used in casual or social situations. While anecdote can be used in formal settings to add humor or interest, it is not as common as account in these contexts.
