What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
girth
Example
The horse's girth was too tight and needed to be adjusted. [girth: noun]
Example
She measured the girth of the tree trunk to estimate its age. [girth: noun]
perimeter
Example
The police officer walked around the perimeter of the crime scene. [perimeter: noun]
Example
The perimeter of the rectangle is equal to the sum of all its sides. [perimeter: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Perimeter is more commonly used in technical or academic contexts, while girth is more commonly used in everyday language, especially when referring to the size or dimensions of living things.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between girth and perimeter?
While girth is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, perimeter is more formal and technical, making it more appropriate for academic or professional contexts.