What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
coterie
Example
The book club was a coterie of avid readers. [coterie: noun]
Example
She was part of a coterie of artists who met regularly to discuss their work. [coterie: noun]
clique
Example
The popular kids formed a clique and only hung out with each other. [clique: noun]
Example
She felt excluded from the clique of coworkers who always went out for drinks after work. [clique: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Clique is more commonly used than coterie in everyday language. Clique has a more negative connotation and is often used to describe groups that are unwelcoming or exclusionary. Coterie is less common but has a more positive connotation and is often associated with intellectual or artistic pursuits.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between coterie and clique?
Both coterie and clique are relatively formal words and may not be commonly used in casual conversation. However, coterie may be seen as slightly more formal due to its association with intellectual or artistic pursuits.
