What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
colloquial
Example
In colloquial English, people often say 'gonna' instead of 'going to'. [colloquial: adjective]
Example
He has a knack for using colloquial expressions that make everyone laugh. [colloquial: noun]
vernacular
Example
The vernacular of this region is a unique blend of Spanish and indigenous languages. [vernacular: noun]
Example
She writes poetry in her native vernacular to capture the essence of her culture. [vernacular: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Colloquial is more commonly used than vernacular in everyday language. Colloquial language is widely used in informal conversations and can be found in various regions and communities. On the other hand, vernacular is less common and is typically used when referring to specific regional or cultural languages.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between colloquial and vernacular?
While colloquial is associated with an informal tone, vernacular can be used in both informal and formal contexts. Vernacular can still be employed in formal writing or literature to capture the essence of a particular culture or community.
