What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
goofball
Example
My little brother is such a goofball, always making silly faces and telling jokes. [goofball: noun]
Example
I tripped over my own feet again, I'm such a goofball sometimes. [goofball: adjective]
buffoon
Example
The boss acted like a buffoon during the meeting, making inappropriate jokes and distracting everyone. [buffoon: noun]
Example
He's always trying to be the center of attention with his silly antics, what a buffoon. [buffoon: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Goofball is more commonly used than buffoon in everyday language. Goofball is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while buffoon is less common and more formal.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between goofball and buffoon?
Buffoon is more formal and less commonly used than goofball. It is often used in more serious or professional contexts, while goofball is more casual and informal.