What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
capricious
Example
She is known for her capricious nature, always changing her plans at the last minute. [capricious: adjective]
Example
The weather in this region is notoriously capricious, with sudden shifts from sunshine to rain. [capricious: adjective]
whimsical
Example
The artist's paintings are whimsical and full of vibrant colors. [whimsical: adjective]
Example
He has a whimsical personality, always coming up with creative and unconventional ideas. [whimsical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Capricious is less common than whimsical in everyday language. Whimsical is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while capricious is more specific and often used in more specialized settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between capricious and whimsical?
While capricious is more formal and commonly used in academic or professional contexts, whimsical is more informal and commonly used in creative writing or casual conversations.