What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
decoration
Example
The decoration of the room was elegant and sophisticated. [decoration: noun]
Example
She spent hours decorating the cake with frosting and sprinkles. [decorating: gerund or present participle]
embellishment
Example
The artist added embellishments to the painting to make it more visually striking. [embellishments: noun]
Example
She enjoyed embellishing her outfits with unique accessories and jewelry. [embellishing: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Decoration is more commonly used than embellishment in everyday language. Decoration is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while embellishment is less common and often used in specific contexts such as fashion or art.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between decoration and embellishment?
Both decoration and embellishment can be used in formal and informal contexts, but decoration is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations, making it more appropriate for formal settings.
