What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
edgy
Example
I feel edgy before a big exam. [edgy: adjective]
Example
The fashion show featured edgy designs that pushed the boundaries of traditional fashion. [edgy: adjective]
Example
She's always been an edgy artist, experimenting with new techniques and styles. [edgy: adjective]
avant-garde
Example
The artist's avant-garde paintings were unlike anything seen before. [avant-garde: adjective]
Example
The band's avant-garde music was difficult for some listeners to appreciate. [avant-garde: adjective]
Example
He was considered an avant-garde thinker in his field, always pushing the boundaries of what was possible. [avant-garde: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Edgy is more commonly used than avant-garde in everyday language, especially among younger or more informal audiences. Avant-garde is more commonly used in academic or artistic circles.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between edgy and avant-garde?
Avant-garde is generally considered more formal and academic than edgy, which has a more colloquial and informal tone.