What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
briary
Example
Be careful when walking through the briary bushes, as they are full of thorns. [briary: adjective]
Example
The path was blocked by a briary thicket, making it hard to pass through. [briary: noun]
prickly
Example
Watch out for the prickly cactus, its spines can cause pain if touched. [prickly: adjective]
Example
She has a prickly personality and can be difficult to get along with. [prickly: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Prickly is more commonly used than briary in everyday language. Prickly is versatile and can be used to describe various situations, while briary is less common and more specific to thorny plants or areas.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between briary and prickly?
Both briary and prickly can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, prickly may have a slightly more informal tone when used to describe a person's behavior or attitude.
