What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
castillo
Example
The tourists visited the ancient castillo to learn about its rich history. [castillo: noun]
Example
The castillo stood tall on the hill, overlooking the surrounding countryside. [castillo: adjective]
citadel
Example
The citadel was built on top of the hill to protect the city from invaders. [citadel: noun]
Example
During the war, the citizens sought shelter within the walls of the citadel. [citadel: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Citadel is more commonly used in English-speaking countries, while castillo is primarily used in Spanish-speaking countries. Citadel is also more versatile in its usage, as it can refer to various types of fortified areas, whereas castillo specifically refers to castles or fortresses.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between castillo and citadel?
Both castillo and citadel have a formal tone due to their association with historical and military contexts. However, citadel may be slightly more formal in English-speaking contexts due to its Latin origins.
