What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fringe
Example
She wore a dress with fringe along the hem. [fringe: noun]
Example
The political party was considered to be on the fringe of society. [fringe: adjective]
Example
His ideas were seen as too radical and on the fringe of acceptable discourse. [fringe: preposition]
periphery
Example
The park is located on the periphery of the city. [periphery: noun]
Example
The company's offices are on the periphery of town. [periphery: noun]
Example
While important, the issue is on the periphery of the main discussion. [periphery: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Periphery is more commonly used than fringe in everyday language. Periphery is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while fringe is less common and has a more specific usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between fringe and periphery?
Both fringe and periphery are relatively neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
