What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cotillion
Example
The cotillion was a grand affair, with everyone dressed in their finest attire. [cotillion: noun]
Example
The cotillion dance requires precise footwork and coordination. [cotillion: adjective]
Example
The debutantes were taught proper etiquette and manners at the cotillion. [cotillion: noun]
dance
Example
She loves to dance to her favorite songs in her room. [dance: verb]
Example
He has been studying ballet for years and hopes to become a professional dancer. [dancer: noun]
Example
The wedding reception had a live band and everyone was dancing the night away. [dancing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dance is a much more common word than cotillion in everyday language. Dance is a versatile term that covers a wide range of contexts and can be used in various formality levels, while cotillion is a more specific and less commonly used term.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cotillion and dance?
Cotillion is typically associated with a formal and structured tone, while dance can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.