What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
enigmatic
Example
The Mona Lisa's enigmatic smile has puzzled art historians for centuries. [enigmatic: adjective]
Example
He was an enigmatic figure, never revealing his true intentions. [enigmatic: adjective]
inexplicable
Example
The sudden disappearance of the plane remains inexplicable to this day. [inexplicable: adjective]
Example
I have this inexplicable feeling of unease whenever I'm in that house. [inexplicable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inexplicable is more commonly used in everyday language than enigmatic. Enigmatic is more often used in literary or artistic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between enigmatic and inexplicable?
Both enigmatic and inexplicable are formal words, but enigmatic may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with literary or artistic contexts.
