What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gymnastic
Example
She is a talented gymnast who can perform amazing flips and twists. [gymnast: noun]
Example
The gymnastic competition was intense, with athletes showcasing their skills on the balance beam and uneven bars. [gymnastic: adjective]
athletic
Example
He is an athletic person who enjoys playing basketball and running marathons. [athletic: adjective]
Example
The Olympic Games are a showcase of the world's best athletes competing in various sports. [athletes: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Athletic is more commonly used and understood than gymnastic. Athletic is a versatile term that covers a wide range of physical activities and sports, while gymnastic is a more specialized term that refers to specific skills and equipment.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gymnastic and athletic?
Both gymnastic and athletic can be used in formal and informal contexts, but gymnastic may be more associated with formal or technical language due to its specialized nature.