What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dualism
Example
The philosopher believed in the dualism of good and evil. [dualism: noun]
Example
Dualism suggests that there are two different realities, one physical and one non-physical. [dualism: noun]
dichotomy
Example
There is a dichotomy between science and religion. [dichotomy: noun]
Example
The decision was a dichotomy between staying home or going out. [dichotomy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dichotomy is more commonly used than dualism in everyday language. Dichotomy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while dualism is less common and often used in philosophical or spiritual discussions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dualism and dichotomy?
Both dualism and dichotomy are formal words, but dualism is more likely to be used in academic or philosophical contexts, while dichotomy can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
