What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
butterfly
Example
Look at the beautiful butterfly fluttering in the garden. [butterfly: noun]
Example
The butterfly landed on the flower, showcasing its vibrant colors. [butterfly: noun]
papillon
Example
She owns a cute papillon dog named Coco. [papillon: noun]
Example
The ballerina wore a stunning papillon costume for the ballet performance. [papillon: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Butterfly is more commonly used than papillon in everyday language. Butterfly is a widely recognized term for the insect, while papillon is more specific and often used in particular contexts such as dog breeds or artistic references.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between butterfly and papillon?
Both butterfly and papillon can be used in various formality levels. However, butterfly is more versatile and commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, while papillon may be more commonly used in specific contexts or artistic discussions.