What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fabricated
Example
The witness admitted that his testimony was fabricated. [fabricated: adjective]
Example
The news article was found to contain fabricated information. [fabricated: past participle]
fictitious
Example
The book is a work of fiction and all characters are fictitious. [fictitious: adjective]
Example
The company used a fictitious name to avoid legal issues. [fictitious: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fictitious is more commonly used than fabricated in everyday language, particularly in the context of literature or entertainment. Fabricated is more formal and is often used in the context of deception or fraud.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fabricated and fictitious?
Fabricated is more formal and serious than fictitious, which is more casual and playful. Both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation.