What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
girlish
Example
She had a girlish giggle that made everyone smile. [girlish: adjective]
Example
The dress had a girlish charm with its pink color and frilly design. [girlish: adjective]
childlike
Example
He had a childlike wonder and curiosity about the world. [childlike: adjective]
Example
The painting had a childlike quality to it, with its bright colors and simple shapes. [childlike: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Childlike is more commonly used than girlish in everyday language. Childlike is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while girlish is less common and often associated with fashion or appearance.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between girlish and childlike?
Both girlish and childlike are informal words that are appropriate for casual conversation or creative writing. However, childlike can also be used in more formal contexts to convey a sense of innocence or simplicity.
