What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
epitome
Example
The Taj Mahal is considered the epitome of Mughal architecture. [epitome: noun]
Example
The book is an epitome of the author's philosophy on life. [epitome: noun]
Example
She is the epitome of grace and elegance. [epitome: noun]
paragon
Example
He was a paragon of virtue and integrity. [paragon: noun]
Example
The company is a paragon of innovation and creativity. [paragon: noun]
Example
She is a paragon of beauty and talent. [paragon: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Paragon is less common than epitome in everyday language. Epitome is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while paragon is more specific and typically used in literature and creative writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between epitome and paragon?
Both epitome and paragon are considered formal words, but epitome is more commonly used in academic or technical writing, while paragon is more commonly used in literature and creative writing.