What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
eyelash
Example
She applied mascara to her eyelashes to make them look longer. [eyelashes: noun]
Example
The wind blew dust into his eyes, but his long eyelashes protected him. [eyelashes: noun]
cilium
Example
The cilia in the lungs help to remove foreign particles and keep the airways clear. [cilia: noun]
Example
The cilium on the surface of the cell helps it to move and sense its environment. [cilium: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Eyelash is more commonly used than cilium in everyday language. Eyelash is a familiar term that is often associated with beauty and aesthetics, while cilium is a technical term that is more commonly used in scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between eyelash and cilium?
Cilium is a more formal term than eyelash. It is a technical term that is commonly used in scientific and medical contexts, while eyelash is a more versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.