What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
elegance
Example
The bride's dress was a perfect example of elegance. [elegance: noun]
Example
She moved with elegance and grace across the dance floor. [elegance: noun]
sophistication
Example
The restaurant's menu reflected the chef's sophistication and creativity. [sophistication: noun]
Example
Her sophisticated taste in art impressed the gallery owner. [sophisticated: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Elegance is more commonly used than sophistication in everyday language. Elegance is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while sophistication is less common and more formal, making it suitable for academic or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between elegance and sophistication?
Sophistication is more formal than elegance, making it more appropriate for academic or professional contexts. However, both words can be used in formal or informal settings depending on the context and tone of the communication.