What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
fussy
Example
My boss is very fussy about the way we organize our files. [fussy: adjective]
Example
The baby was being fussy and wouldn't stop crying. [fussy: adjective]
particular
Example
I'm very particular about the type of coffee I drink. [particular: adjective]
Example
The recipe calls for particular measurements of each ingredient. [particular: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Particular is more commonly used than fussy in everyday language. Particular is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while fussy is less common and often carries a negative connotation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between fussy and particular?
Both fussy and particular can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but particular is generally considered more formal due to its neutral connotation.
