What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
consort
Example
The queen and her consort attended the state dinner. [consort: noun]
Example
He chose to consort with the wrong crowd and got into trouble. [consort: verb]
Example
The violinist played a duet with his consort. [consort: noun]
spouse
Example
My spouse and I have been married for 10 years. [spouse: noun]
Example
She introduced her spouse to the rest of the group. [spouse: noun]
Example
He has been with his spouse for over 20 years. [spouse: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spouse is a more common term than consort in everyday language, especially in modern contexts. Consort is less commonly used and is typically associated with historical or formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between consort and spouse?
Spouse is considered a more formal term than consort, and is typically used in legal or official contexts. Consort is a more versatile term and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it may carry a negative connotation in some situations.
