What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
continent
Example
Australia is the smallest continent in the world. [continent: noun]
Example
The continent of Europe has a rich cultural heritage. [continent: noun]
landmass
Example
Greenland is the world's largest island, but it is also considered a landmass. [landmass: noun]
Example
The Indian subcontinent is a large landmass that includes India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and other countries. [landmass: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Continent is more commonly used in everyday language than landmass. This is because continent is a well-known term that is taught in schools and used in general knowledge, while landmass is a more technical term used in scientific and academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between continent and landmass?
Landmass is generally considered a more formal term than continent. It is often used in scientific and academic contexts, while continent can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
