What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dissertation
Example
She spent years working on her dissertation on the effects of climate change on marine life. [dissertation: noun]
Example
He is currently writing his dissertation on the history of jazz music in America. [dissertation: noun]
treatise
Example
The philosopher's treatise on ethics is considered a seminal work in the field. [treatise: noun]
Example
Her treatise on the history of medicine in ancient Greece is widely regarded as a masterpiece. [treatise: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dissertation is more commonly used than treatise in academic contexts, especially in the United States. However, treatise is still used in some academic circles and is more common in British English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dissertation and treatise?
Both dissertation and treatise are formal pieces of writing and are typically used in academic or scholarly contexts. However, dissertation is more commonly associated with doctoral degrees, while treatise can be used for various purposes and may be more versatile in terms of formality level.
