What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
eternal
Example
The concept of love is eternal. [eternal: adjective]
Example
The soul is believed to be eternal in many religions. [eternal: adjective]
perpetual
Example
The perpetual motion machine is a theoretical device that can run indefinitely. [perpetual: adjective]
Example
The sound of the waves was a perpetual background noise. [perpetual: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Perpetual is more commonly used than eternal in everyday language. Perpetual is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while eternal is less common and often used in a more specialized context.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between eternal and perpetual?
Both eternal and perpetual can be used in formal and informal contexts, but eternal is often associated with a more formal tone due to its philosophical and religious connotations.
