What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cologne
Example
He always wears a cologne that has a hint of musk. [cologne: noun]
Example
She sprayed some cologne on her wrists before going out. [cologne: noun]
fragrance
Example
The fragrance of the roses filled the garden. [fragrance: noun]
Example
She loves the fragrance of freshly baked bread. [fragrance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fragrance is a more commonly used term than cologne in everyday language. Fragrance is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while cologne is more specific and often associated with men's perfumes.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cologne and fragrance?
While cologne is typically associated with a more formal or masculine tone, fragrance is a neutral term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.