What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
finicky
Example
My sister is so finicky about her food, she won't eat anything that isn't cooked just right. [finicky: adjective]
Example
The artist was finicky about the colors he used in his painting, spending hours trying to get them just right. [finicky: adjective]
fussy
Example
My grandmother is always fussy about her hair and makeup before leaving the house. [fussy: adjective]
Example
The baby was fussy all night, crying at the slightest noise. [fussy: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fussy is more commonly used than finicky in everyday language. Fussy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while finicky is less common and more specific in its usage.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between finicky and fussy?
Both finicky and fussy are informal words, but finicky can be used in more formal contexts when describing high standards or quality workmanship.
