What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bairn
Example
The bairn ran happily through the fields, chasing after butterflies. [bairn: noun]
Example
She's such a sweet little bairn, always bringing joy to everyone around her. [bairn: adjective]
child
Example
The child played with their toys in the living room. [child: noun]
Example
He is my only child and I love him dearly. [child: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Child is more commonly used than bairn in everyday language. Child is a versatile word that is widely understood and used across different regions and cultures. Bairn, on the other hand, is more specific to certain dialects and regions, particularly in Scotland and Northern England.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bairn and child?
While child is considered a formal term that can be used in various contexts, bairn is more informal and regional. It is commonly used in casual conversations or in specific cultural or geographical contexts.
