What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dunderpate
Example
He's such a dunderpate, he can't even tie his own shoes. [dunderpate: noun]
Example
She acted like a dunderpate when she spilled coffee all over her shirt. [dunderpate: adjective]
nincompoop
Example
Don't be such a nincompoop and forget your keys again. [nincompoop: noun]
Example
He made a nincompoop mistake by forgetting to save his work. [nincompoop: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nincompoop is more commonly used than dunderpate in everyday language, especially in American English.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dunderpate and nincompoop?
Nincompoop is considered more formal than dunderpate, although both words are informal and used in casual settings.
