What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
appellation
Example
The appellation 'Doctor' is used to address individuals with a medical degree. [appellation: noun]
Example
The wine carries the prestigious appellation of 'Champagne'. [appellation: noun]
designation
Example
She received the designation of 'Employee of the Month' for her outstanding performance. [designation: noun]
Example
The area has been given the designation of a national park due to its ecological significance. [designation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Designation is more commonly used than appellation in everyday language. Designation is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while appellation is less common and tends to be used in more formal or specialized situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between appellation and designation?
While appellation is typically associated with a formal and official tone, designation can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it more flexible in terms of formality.