What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
avaricious
Example
The avaricious businessman would stop at nothing to increase his profits. [avaricious: adjective]
Example
She was known for her avaricious nature, always wanting more and never being content. [avaricious: noun]
covetous
Example
He couldn't help but feel covetous when he saw his neighbor's new car. [covetous: adjective]
Example
She had a covetous eye on her friend's designer handbag. [covetous: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Covetous is more commonly used in everyday language compared to avaricious. Covetous is a term that is more widely recognized and understood, while avaricious is less commonly used and may be less familiar to ESL learners.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between avaricious and covetous?
Both avaricious and covetous are formal words that are typically used in more serious or literary contexts. However, covetous may be slightly more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings.
