What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
barbarity
Example
The barbarity of the dictator's regime shocked the world. [barbarity: noun]
Example
The soldiers committed acts of barbarity against innocent civilians. [barbarity: noun]
barbarism
Example
The tribe's rituals were seen as a form of barbarism by outsiders. [barbarism: noun]
Example
The invasion led to a period of chaos and barbarism in the region. [barbarism: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Barbarity is less commonly used than barbarism in everyday language. Barbarity is often used in more serious or formal contexts to describe extreme acts of cruelty, while barbarism is more versatile and can be used to describe a broader range of uncivilized behavior or conditions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between barbarity and barbarism?
Both barbarity and barbarism are generally considered formal words. However, barbarity may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its association with extreme acts of cruelty.
