What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bijou
Example
She wore a stunning bijou necklace to the party. [bijou: noun]
Example
The boutique is filled with bijou trinkets and accessories. [bijou: adjective]
gem
Example
She received a beautiful gemstone ring for her birthday. [gem: noun]
Example
That restaurant is a hidden gem, known for its delicious food. [gem: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gem is more commonly used than bijou in everyday language. Gem is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while bijou is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations related to jewelry or small objects.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bijou and gem?
While bijou is typically associated with a more formal and elegant tone, gem can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Gem is more versatile and can be used to describe a wider range of objects and concepts.