What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
effeminately
Example
He walked effeminately, swinging his hips and holding his hands delicately. [effeminately: adverb]
Example
The actor played the role of a gay man effeminately, with exaggerated gestures and a high-pitched voice. [effeminately: adverb]
girlish
Example
She giggled girlishly, covering her mouth with her hand. [girlishly: adverb]
Example
The actress played the role of a naive young woman girlishly, with innocent expressions and playful movements. [girlishly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Girlish is more commonly used than effeminately in everyday language. Girlish is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while effeminately is less common and may be unfamiliar to some English learners.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between effeminately and girlish?
Both effeminately and girlish are informal words and may not be appropriate in formal or professional settings. However, effeminately may be considered more offensive or insensitive in certain situations due to its association with homosexuality or gender identity.
