What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
espy
Example
I espy a deer in the woods. [espy: verb]
Example
She espyed the ship on the horizon. [espyed: past tense]
notice
Example
Did you notice the new painting on the wall? [notice: verb]
Example
I received a notice from the bank about my account. [notice: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Notice is more commonly used than espy in everyday language. Notice is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while espy is less common and has a more specific meaning.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between espy and notice?
Espy is a more formal word that is often used in literature or poetry, while notice is a more neutral and everyday word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.