What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
clerical
Example
She has many years of experience in clerical work. [clerical: adjective]
Example
The company is hiring a new clerical assistant to help with administrative tasks. [clerical: noun]
secretarial
Example
She is the manager's secretarial assistant and helps with his daily tasks. [secretarial: adjective]
Example
The company is looking for a skilled secretarial candidate with excellent organizational skills. [secretarial: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clerical is a more commonly used term than secretarial in everyday language. Clerical is a broader term that covers a wider range of administrative tasks, while secretarial is more specific and often used in the context of supporting higher-level staff members.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between clerical and secretarial?
Both clerical and secretarial can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, secretarial is often associated with a more formal tone due to its connection with supporting executives or managers.
