What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
baton
Example
The conductor used the baton to guide the musicians during the performance. [baton: noun]
Example
The police officer held the baton firmly as they approached the unruly crowd. [baton: noun]
truncheon
Example
The police officer raised their truncheon to maintain order in the protest. [truncheon: noun]
Example
In medieval times, knights would wield a truncheon in battle. [truncheon: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Baton is more commonly used than truncheon in everyday language. Baton is widely recognized in the context of music and sports, while truncheon is less common and mainly used in law enforcement or historical discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between baton and truncheon?
Both baton and truncheon can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation. However, baton is generally more versatile and can be used in various formality levels, while truncheon is more specific to law enforcement or historical settings and may lean towards a more formal tone.
