What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
firsthand
Example
I heard about the accident firsthand from the witness. [firsthand: adverb]
Example
She had firsthand experience with the challenges of starting a business. [firsthand: adjective]
primary
Example
The primary goal of the project is to increase sales. [primary: adjective]
Example
The primary source for this historical event is a diary written by a witness. [primary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Primary is more commonly used than firsthand in everyday language. Primary is a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while firsthand is more specific and often used in more formal or technical settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between firsthand and primary?
Both firsthand and primary can be used in formal or technical settings, but firsthand may have a slightly more informal connotation due to its association with personal experience and observation.
