What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
colophon
Example
The colophon at the end of the book listed the publisher, printer, and year of publication. [colophon: noun]
Example
The book had a beautiful colophon design on the title page. [colophon: adjective]
imprint
Example
The imprint of the publishing company was prominently displayed on the spine of the book. [imprint: noun]
Example
The accident left an imprint of the car's tire on the pavement. [imprint: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Imprint is more commonly used than colophon in everyday language, especially when referring to the publisher's name or logo on a book. Colophon is less common and is mainly used in the context of book production.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between colophon and imprint?
Both colophon and imprint are relatively formal words, but colophon may be considered more formal due to its specific association with book production and design.
