What is the difference between decadal and decennial?

Definitions

decadal

- Referring to something that occurs every ten years.

- Describing a period of ten years.

- Talking about a decade-long event or trend.

decennial

- Referring to something that occurs every ten years.

- Describing a period of ten years.

- Talking about a ten-year anniversary or celebration.

List of Similarities

• 1. Both words refer to something that occurs every ten years.
• 2. Both words can describe a period of ten years.
• 3. Both words are used in formal contexts.

What is the difference?

• 1. Usage: Decadal is more commonly used than decennial.
• 2. Meaning: Decadal emphasizes the frequency of an event or occurrence, while decennial emphasizes the anniversary or celebration of a ten-year period.
• 3. Connotation: Decadal is neutral in tone, while decennial has a celebratory connotation.

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Remember this!

Decadal and decennial are synonyms that refer to something that occurs every ten years or a period of ten years. However, decadal emphasizes the frequency of an event or occurrence, while decennial emphasizes the anniversary or celebration of a ten-year period. Decadal is more commonly used and has variations such as 'decade' and 'decennary', while decennial has no variations and has a celebratory connotation.