What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
genealogy
Example
She spent years researching her family's genealogy. [genealogy: noun]
Example
The genealogy of the royal family can be traced back centuries. [genealogy: noun]
lineage
Example
He comes from a long line of doctors in his lineage. [lineage: noun]
Example
The dog's lineage can be traced back to a champion bloodline. [lineage: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Genealogy is less common than lineage in everyday language, and is often used in academic or research contexts. Lineage is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between genealogy and lineage?
Genealogy is typically associated with a more formal or scholarly tone, while lineage can be used in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.