What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cartoon
Example
I love watching cartoons on Saturday mornings. [cartoons: noun]
Example
The political cartoon in the newspaper made me laugh. [cartoon: adjective]
animation
Example
The animation in that movie was incredible. [animation: noun]
Example
She studied animation in college and now works for a famous animation studio. [animation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Animation is more commonly used than cartoon in everyday language, especially when referring to the creation of moving images. Cartoon is often associated with humorous illustrations or comic strips, while animation has a broader application in movies, TV shows, video games, and advertisements.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cartoon and animation?
Both cartoon and animation can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, animation is more versatile and widely used in professional settings due to its broader scope and application.
