What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cara
Example
Her cara showed surprise when she saw the birthday cake. [cara: noun]
Example
He had a cara full of joy as he watched his favorite team win. [cara: adjective]
countenance
Example
Despite the difficult situation, she maintained a calm countenance. [countenance: noun]
Example
His countenance showed determination as he prepared for the challenge. [countenance: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cara is more commonly used than countenance in everyday language. It is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts to describe a person's face or facial expression.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cara and countenance?
While cara is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, countenance is more formal and literary. It is often used in more serious or formal contexts, such as literature, poetry, or formal writing.
