What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cliff
Example
The hikers stood at the edge of the cliff, admiring the breathtaking view. [cliff: noun]
Example
She carefully climbed down the cliff using ropes and harnesses. [cliff: noun]
precipice
Example
The mountaineers cautiously approached the edge of the precipice. [precipice: noun]
Example
He felt like he was standing on the precipice of a new chapter in his life. [precipice: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cliff is more commonly used than precipice in everyday language. Cliff is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while precipice is less common and may be more formal or literary.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cliff and precipice?
While cliff is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, precipice is less common and may be perceived as more formal or literary.
