What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hammy
Example
The actor's hammy performance drew laughter from the audience. [hammy: adjective]
Example
She hammed it up during her audition, hoping to impress the casting director. [hammed: past tense verb]
theatrical
Example
The play had a strong theatrical element, with elaborate costumes and sets. [theatrical: adjective]
Example
Her theatrical performance in the lead role earned her critical acclaim. [theatrical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Theatrical is a more common word than hammy and is used in a wider range of contexts. Hammy is a more specialized term that is used primarily in the world of theater or in informal conversation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between hammy and theatrical?
Theatrical is a more formal term than hammy and is appropriate for use in a wide range of contexts, including academic writing, while hammy is a more informal term that is best suited for casual conversation or informal writing.
