What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
athletics
Example
She excels in athletics and participates in various track and field events. [athletics: noun]
Example
The school organized an athletics competition for students to showcase their skills. [athletics: adjective]
sports
Example
He enjoys playing sports like basketball and soccer with his friends. [sports: noun]
Example
Sports activities help improve physical fitness and promote teamwork. [sports: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sports is a more commonly used term than athletics in everyday language. Sports cover a broader range of activities and are more familiar to people of different cultures and backgrounds.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between athletics and sports?
While athletics is commonly used in formal contexts such as official competitions and sporting events, sports can be used in both formal and informal settings, making it a more versatile term.
