What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fatuous
Example
The politician's fatuous remarks were met with ridicule from the audience. [fatuous: adjective]
Example
She made a fatuous decision to spend all her savings on a frivolous purchase. [fatuous: adjective]
idiotic
Example
He made an idiotic mistake by leaving his passport at home. [idiotic: adjective]
Example
Her suggestion to solve the problem was completely idiotic. [idiotic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Idiotic is more commonly used than fatuous in everyday language. Idiotic is a stronger and more direct insult, while fatuous is a milder and more nuanced criticism.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fatuous and idiotic?
Neither fatuous nor idiotic is suitable for formal writing or speech. However, fatuous has a more literary and formal sound, while idiotic has a more colloquial and informal sound.
