What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ceramic
Example
The artist created a beautiful ceramic vase with intricate designs. [ceramic: adjective]
Example
Ceramics have been used for thousands of years to make various functional and decorative items. [ceramics: noun]
pottery
Example
She enjoys working with pottery and creates unique pieces on her pottery wheel. [pottery: noun]
Example
The potter carefully glazed and fired the pottery to achieve a glossy finish. [pottery: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pottery is more commonly used than ceramic in everyday language. Pottery is a familiar term that people use when referring to functional objects made from clay, such as pots or bowls. Ceramic is a more technical term that is commonly used in scientific or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ceramic and pottery?
While ceramic is associated with a more formal and technical tone, pottery is a versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
