What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
clime
Example
The tropical climes of Southeast Asia attract many tourists. [climes: noun]
Example
She enjoys living in a warm clime where it's sunny most of the year. [clime: noun]
climate
Example
The climate in this region is hot and dry, with very little rainfall. [climate: noun]
Example
Climate change is a global issue that affects the entire planet. [climate: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Climate is more commonly used than clime in scientific and everyday language. Climate is a widely recognized term that is used to discuss the long-term weather patterns and conditions of a specific region or area. On the other hand, clime is less commonly used and may be more commonly found in literature or poetry.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between clime and climate?
While clime can have a poetic or literary connotation, climate is a more neutral and scientific term. Therefore, climate is generally considered more formal than clime and is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts.
