What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ellipsoidal
Example
The satellite dish has an ellipsoidal shape. [ellipsoidal: adjective]
Example
The planet Mars has an ellipsoidal shape due to its rotation. [ellipsoidal: adjective]
elliptical
Example
The moon's orbit around the Earth is elliptical. [elliptical: adjective]
Example
The oval mirror has an elliptical shape. [elliptical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Elliptical is more commonly used than ellipsoidal in everyday language. Elliptical is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ellipsoidal is less common and typically used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ellipsoidal and elliptical?
While ellipsoidal is typically associated with a more technical or formal tone, elliptical is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
