What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
footnote
Example
The author included a footnote to explain the historical context of the event. [footnote: noun]
Example
In this paragraph, there is a footnote that provides more information about the source. [footnote: modifier]
note
Example
I made a note of the phone number so I wouldn't forget it. [note: noun]
Example
She noted down the main points of the presentation. [noted: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Note is more commonly used than footnote in everyday language. Note is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while footnote is less common and is mainly used in academic or formal writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between footnote and note?
Footnote is typically associated with a formal tone and is commonly used in academic or research papers. Note is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.