What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bard
Example
The bard entertained the crowd with his captivating storytelling. [bard: noun]
Example
She is known as the bard of our generation, with her beautiful lyrics and melodies. [bard: noun]
minstrel
Example
The minstrel played a lively tune on his lute, filling the room with music. [minstrel: noun]
Example
In ancient times, minstrels were highly respected for their ability to entertain and captivate audiences. [minstrels: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Minstrel is more commonly used than bard in everyday language. While bard has historical and literary associations, minstrel is still occasionally used to describe musicians or performers.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bard and minstrel?
Both bard and minstrel have a somewhat formal tone due to their historical connotations. However, minstrel may be slightly more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.