What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
caucasian
Example
She is a caucasian woman with blonde hair and blue eyes. [caucasian: adjective]
Example
The caucasian population in the city has been steadily increasing. [caucasian: noun]
white
Example
He was wearing a white shirt and black pants. [white: adjective]
Example
The majority of the students in the class are white. [white: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
White is more commonly used than caucasian in everyday language. It is a widely accepted term that is used to describe the racial category of people with light-colored skin. Caucasian, although still used in certain contexts, is less common and can sometimes be seen as outdated or overly technical.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between caucasian and white?
While caucasian is associated with a more formal or academic tone, white is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
