What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
centenary
Example
The country celebrated the centenary of its independence with a grand parade. [centenary: noun]
Example
This year marks the centenary of the first World War. [centenary: adjective]
centennial
Example
The university is hosting a centennial celebration to mark its 100 years of existence. [centennial: adjective]
Example
The town's centennial parade attracted people from all over the region. [centennial: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Centennial is more commonly used than centenary in everyday language, especially in American English. Centennial is widely recognized and used, while centenary is less common and more commonly used in British English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between centenary and centennial?
While centenary may sound more formal and traditional, centennial has a slightly more modern and celebratory connotation. Both words can be used in formal and informal contexts, but centenary may be more suitable for formal writing or historical contexts.
