What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
highbrow
Example
The book club only reads highbrow literature. [highbrow: adjective]
Example
She's a highbrow who enjoys attending lectures and symposiums. [highbrow: noun]
sophisticated
Example
The restaurant has a sophisticated atmosphere with dim lighting and soft music. [sophisticated: adjective]
Example
He's a sophisticated investor who knows how to navigate the stock market. [sophisticated: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sophisticated is more commonly used than highbrow in everyday language. Sophisticated is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while highbrow is less common and has a more specific connotation.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between highbrow and sophisticated?
Both highbrow and sophisticated can be used in formal or informal contexts, but highbrow may come across as more pretentious or snobbish in tone.
