What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
congenial
Example
She found him to be a congenial companion on the trip. [congenial: adjective]
Example
The restaurant had a congenial ambiance, making it a great place to relax. [congenial: adjective]
friendly
Example
The new neighbor was very friendly and introduced herself to everyone. [friendly: adjective]
Example
The staff at the hotel were always friendly and helpful. [friendly: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Friendly is more commonly used than congenial in everyday language, making it a more accessible word for ESL learners to use in conversation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between congenial and friendly?
Congenial is often used in more formal contexts, such as business or academic settings, while friendly can be used in both formal and informal settings, making it a more versatile word for ESL learners to use in various situations.
