Definitions
- Describing two or more things or people that exist or occur at the same time. - Referring to individuals or objects that are of the same age or generation. - Talking about events or phenomena that happen simultaneously or within the same time period.
- Describing something or someone that belongs to the same time period as another. - Referring to individuals or objects that are currently existing or happening. - Talking about art, literature, or music that is modern and reflects the current time.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to things or people that exist or occur at the same time.
- 2Both can describe individuals or objects that are of the same age or generation.
- 3Both can be used to talk about events or phenomena that happen simultaneously or within the same time period.
What is the difference?
- 1Usage: Coeval is less commonly used compared to contemporary in everyday language.
- 2Focus: Coeval emphasizes the simultaneous existence or occurrence of things or people, while contemporary focuses on belonging to the same time period.
- 3Scope: Coeval can refer to a broader range of things or people, including non-human entities, while contemporary is primarily used for humans and cultural aspects.
- 4Connotation: Coeval has a more formal and academic tone, while contemporary is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
- 5Artistic Context: Contemporary is commonly used in the context of art, literature, and music to describe works that reflect the current time and trends.
Remember this!
Coeval and contemporary are synonyms that describe things or people that exist or occur at the same time. However, there are some differences in their usage and focus. Coeval is less common and has a more formal tone, emphasizing simultaneous existence or occurrence. On the other hand, contemporary is more versatile, commonly used, and focuses on belonging to the same time period, especially in the context of art and culture.