What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
binocle
Example
He adjusted his binocle and peered at the stage to get a better view. [binocle: noun]
Example
She always carries her binocle when she goes birdwatching. [binocle: noun]
lorgnette
Example
She elegantly held up her lorgnette to get a closer look at the painting. [lorgnette: noun]
Example
The lady used her lorgnette to observe the actors on stage during the play. [lorgnette: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Binocle is less commonly used compared to lorgnette. Binocle is more specialized and associated with specific activities like birdwatching or outdoor observations, while lorgnette is more historically significant and associated with elegant social occasions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between binocle and lorgnette?
Both binocle and lorgnette have a formal connotation due to their association with specific contexts and historical periods. However, lorgnette may be perceived as more formal and elegant due to its historical usage as a fashionable accessory.