What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
besom
Example
She swept the garden with a besom to remove the fallen leaves. [besom: noun]
Example
In old tales, witches were often depicted flying on their besoms. [besoms: plural noun]
broom
Example
I need to sweep the floor, let me grab the broom. [broom: noun]
Example
She was busy cleaning the office with a broom and dustpan. [broom: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Broom is more commonly used than besom in everyday language. Broom is a versatile term that covers a wide range of cleaning tools and is familiar to most people. Besom, on the other hand, is less common and may be more familiar in specific contexts or regions.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between besom and broom?
Both besom and broom can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, broom is more versatile and widely recognized, making it suitable for various formality levels.