What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
compilation
Example
The professor asked for a compilation of research papers on the topic. [compilation: noun]
Example
She spent hours compiling a playlist of her favorite songs. [compiling: gerund or present participle]
compendium
Example
The encyclopedia is a compendium of knowledge on various subjects. [compendium: noun]
Example
The report included a compendium of statistics from the past year. [compendium: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Compilation is more commonly used in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. On the other hand, compendium is more commonly used in academic or professional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between compilation and compendium?
Compendium is generally considered more formal than compilation, due to its association with academic or professional contexts.
