What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
boy
Example
The boy played with his toy cars in the living room. [boy: noun]
Example
He is just a boy, he doesn't understand the consequences of his actions. [boy: noun]
lad
Example
Hey, lad, could you help me carry these groceries? [lad: noun]
Example
The lads went on a camping trip and had a great time exploring the wilderness. [lads: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Boy is more commonly used than lad in everyday language. Boy is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts, while lad is less common and has a slightly more specific usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between boy and lad?
While boy can be used in both formal and informal contexts, lad is more commonly used in informal or casual situations. Lad has a friendlier and more informal connotation, making it suitable for addressing or talking about boys or young men in a relaxed setting.
