What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
curtsy
Example
The princess curtsied before the queen. [curtsied: past tense]
Example
She gave a curtsy to the audience after her performance. [curtsy: noun]
bow
Example
He bowed deeply to the audience after his speech. [bowed: past tense]
Example
She gave a slight bow to her opponent before the match. [bow: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bow is more commonly used than curtsy in everyday language and can be used in various contexts, from formal to informal. Curtsy is less common and is mostly used in formal events or cultural practices.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between curtsy and bow?
Both curtsy and bow are formal gestures, but curtsy is more associated with elegance and femininity, while bow can be used in various formality levels and has a wider range of cultural meanings.
