What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
essayistic
Example
The author's essayistic style allowed her to convey her personal experiences in a powerful and moving way. [essayistic: adjective]
Example
The book is a collection of essayistic pieces that explore various themes and topics. [essayistic: adjective]
discursive
Example
The article takes a discursive approach to the topic, presenting various arguments and counterarguments. [discursive: adjective]
Example
The professor's lecture was highly discursive, covering a wide range of topics and ideas. [discursive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Discursive is more commonly used than essayistic in academic and formal writing. Essayistic is a less common term and is often associated with more creative or personal forms of writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between essayistic and discursive?
Discursive is typically associated with a more formal and academic tone, while essayistic is often associated with a more informal and personal tone.
