What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
folklore
Example
The folklore of Ireland includes stories of leprechauns and banshees. [folklore: noun]
Example
She grew up listening to her grandmother's folklore about their family history. [folklore: adjective]
mythology
Example
Greek mythology includes stories of gods and heroes like Zeus and Hercules. [mythology: noun]
Example
The professor specializes in the study of Norse mythology. [mythology: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mythology is more commonly used than folklore in academic and scholarly contexts. However, folklore is still widely used in everyday language and popular culture.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between folklore and mythology?
Mythology is often associated with a formal and academic tone, while folklore is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
