What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
buffoon
Example
The comedian played the role of a buffoon, making everyone in the audience burst into laughter. [buffoon: noun]
Example
He always acts like a buffoon, trying to get attention with his silly antics. [buffoon: adjective]
clown
Example
The children were delighted by the clown's funny tricks and jokes. [clown: noun]
Example
Stop clowning around and focus on your work! [clowning: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clown is more commonly used than buffoon in everyday language. Clown is a well-known term that is often associated with circus performances and entertainment, while buffoon is less commonly used and has a slightly different connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between buffoon and clown?
Both buffoon and clown are informal words that are used in casual contexts. However, clown is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal settings, while buffoon is generally used in informal or humorous contexts.
