What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
circumferential
Example
The city has built a circumferential road that goes around the outskirts of the town. [circumferential: adjective]
Example
She walked along the circumferential path that encircled the lake. [circumferential: noun]
peripheral
Example
He noticed some movement in his peripheral vision, but when he turned to look, there was nothing there. [peripheral: adjective]
Example
I need to buy a new peripheral for my computer, like a printer or a scanner. [peripheral: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Peripheral is more commonly used than circumferential in everyday language. Peripheral is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while circumferential is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between circumferential and peripheral?
While circumferential is typically associated with a more technical or scientific tone, peripheral is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
