What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
buttock
Example
She fell and landed hard on her left buttock. [buttock: noun]
Example
The doctor examined the patient's injured buttock. [buttock: adjective]
bum
Example
He slipped on the ice and landed right on his bum. [bum: noun]
Example
She has a tattoo on her lower back, just above her bum. [bum: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bum is more commonly used than buttock in everyday language. Bum is a colloquial term that is widely understood and used in informal contexts. Buttock, on the other hand, is less common and typically used in more formal or technical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between buttock and bum?
Buttock is considered more formal and appropriate for medical or anatomical discussions. It is commonly used in professional settings or when discussing specific conditions. Bum, on the other hand, is informal and should be used in casual conversations or when speaking with friends.
