What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
communicate
Example
We need to communicate our concerns to the manager. [communicate: verb]
Example
Effective communication is essential for building strong relationships. [communication: noun]
convey
Example
Her facial expressions conveyed her excitement and joy. [conveyed: past tense]
Example
The artist used colors and brushstrokes to convey a sense of tranquility in the painting. [convey: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Communicate is more commonly used than convey in everyday language. It is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts and situations. On the other hand, convey is less common and tends to be used in more specific or formal settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between communicate and convey?
While communicate is suitable for both formal and informal situations, convey is slightly more formal and is often used in professional or artistic contexts.