What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
haptic
Example
The haptic feedback on my phone makes it feel like I'm pressing a physical button. [haptic: adjective]
Example
The haptic gloves allow users to feel the texture of virtual objects. [haptic: adjective]
tactile
Example
The tactile sensation of sand between my toes is so relaxing. [tactile: adjective]
Example
The artist used a tactile approach to create a textured painting. [tactile: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tactile is more commonly used than haptic in everyday language. Tactile is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while haptic is a more specialized term used in specific fields.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between haptic and tactile?
Haptic is a more formal term used in specialized fields such as engineering and computer science, while tactile is a more informal term used in everyday language.