What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
headstone
Example
The headstone read 'Beloved mother and grandmother.' [headstone: noun]
Example
We visited the cemetery to see our grandfather's headstone. [headstone: noun]
monument
Example
The Washington Monument is a towering obelisk in Washington D.C. [monument: noun]
Example
The Lincoln Memorial is a famous monument in honor of the 16th President of the United States. [monument: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Headstone is more commonly used in the context of burials and cemeteries, while monument is more commonly used in the context of public memorials and tourist attractions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between headstone and monument?
Monument is generally considered more formal and grandiose than headstone, which is more associated with a solemn and respectful tone.
