What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
catercornered
Example
The table was catercornered in the room, creating a unique and interesting layout. [catercornered: adjective]
Example
She walked catercornered across the street to reach the other side. [catercornered: adverb]
diagonal
Example
He drew a diagonal line from the top left corner to the bottom right corner of the paper. [diagonal: noun]
Example
She walked diagonally across the field to reach the other side. [diagonally: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Diagonal is more commonly used than catercornered in everyday language. Diagonal is a more widely recognized term and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while catercornered is more informal and colloquial.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between catercornered and diagonal?
While catercornered is considered informal and colloquial, diagonal is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.