What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dramatic
Example
The dramatic ending of the movie left the audience in tears. [dramatic: adjective]
Example
She gave a dramatic performance in the school play. [dramatic: adjective]
Example
There was a dramatic shift in the weather from sunny to stormy. [dramatic: adjective]
spectacular
Example
The fireworks display was spectacular, lighting up the entire sky. [spectacular: adjective]
Example
The acrobats put on a spectacular show, leaving the audience in awe. [spectacular: adjective]
Example
The team's comeback in the game was nothing short of spectacular. [spectacular: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spectacular is less common than dramatic in everyday language. Dramatic is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while spectacular is more specific and often used in limited contexts such as sports or outdoor events.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dramatic and spectacular?
Both dramatic and spectacular can be used in formal or informal contexts, but dramatic is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.