What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
coetaneous
Example
The two artists were coetaneous, creating their masterpieces during the same time period. [coetaneous: adjective]
Example
The coetaneous release of the two books sparked a lot of discussion among literary enthusiasts. [coetaneous: adjective]
contemporary
Example
The contemporary art exhibition showcased the works of emerging artists. [contemporary: adjective]
Example
She enjoys reading contemporary novels that reflect current social issues. [contemporary: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Contemporary is more commonly used than coetaneous in everyday language. Contemporary is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while coetaneous is less common and has a more specialized usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between coetaneous and contemporary?
While coetaneous is associated with a more formal and academic tone, contemporary is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.