What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
brigade
Example
The firefighting brigade quickly responded to the forest fire. [brigade: noun]
Example
She joined the volunteer brigade to help clean up the neighborhood. [brigade: noun]
clique
Example
She is part of a clique of popular girls at school. [clique: noun]
Example
The members of the clique always hang out together during lunch breaks. [clique: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clique is more commonly used than brigade in everyday language, especially in informal contexts like schools or social settings. Brigade is more specific and often used in professional or official contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between brigade and clique?
While brigade is associated with a more formal tone due to its professional connotations, clique is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation.