What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cape
Example
She wore a beautiful cape to the party, which matched her dress perfectly. [cape: noun]
Example
The superhero swooped in, his cape billowing behind him. [cape: noun]
shawl
Example
She wrapped a soft shawl around her shoulders to keep warm on the chilly evening. [shawl: noun]
Example
The dancer gracefully twirled, her colorful shawl flowing with her movements. [shawl: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shawl is more commonly used than cape in everyday language. Shawl is a versatile accessory that can be worn with different outfits and in various settings, while cape is less common and often associated with special occasions or events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cape and shawl?
While cape is typically associated with a more formal and elegant tone, shawl can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be a more versatile choice.