What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
effeminately
Example
He walked effeminately, with his hips swaying from side to side. [effeminately: adverb]
Example
The actor played the role of a gay man effeminately, with exaggerated gestures and high-pitched voice. [effeminately: adverb]
womanly
Example
She had a womanly figure, with curves in all the right places. [womanly: adjective]
Example
The actress portrayed a strong and womanly character, who was both assertive and compassionate. [womanly: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Womanly is more commonly used than effeminately in everyday language. Womanly is a positive and versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while effeminately is less common and often used in a negative or derogatory way.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between effeminately and womanly?
Both effeminately and womanly are informal terms that are not typically used in formal contexts. However, effeminately is more likely to be considered offensive or inappropriate in certain settings, while womanly is more neutral and acceptable.
