What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
counterfeit
Example
The police found a stash of counterfeit money in the suspect's house. [counterfeit: adjective]
Example
She was caught trying to pass off a counterfeit painting as an original. [counterfeit: noun]
forged
Example
The bank refused to cash the check because it was forged. [forged: adjective]
Example
He was arrested for forging his boss's signature on a contract. [forging: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Counterfeit is more commonly used than forged in everyday language, especially in the context of fake money or goods. However, forged is still a common word and is often used in legal or formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between counterfeit and forged?
Both counterfeit and forged can be used in formal or legal contexts, but counterfeit may be slightly more formal due to its association with financial crimes.
