What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
duchy
Example
The Duke of Cornwall is the head of the duchy. [duchy: noun]
Example
She inherited the duchy from her father. [duchy: noun]
Example
The duchy was governed by a council of nobles. [duchy: noun]
principality
Example
The Principality of Monaco is a small country on the French Riviera. [principality: noun]
Example
The prince's coronation ceremony was held in the principality's cathedral. [principality: noun]
Example
The principality was governed by a constitutional monarchy. [principality: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Principality is more commonly used than duchy in everyday language. Principality is still used today to describe some countries, such as Monaco and Liechtenstein. On the other hand, duchy is less common and is mostly used in historical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between duchy and principality?
Both duchy and principality are formal words that are not commonly used in everyday language. However, principality may be slightly more formal due to its association with modern-day countries.
