What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
histrionic
Example
The actor's histrionic performance was met with mixed reviews. [histrionic: adjective]
Example
She tends to be histrionic when she doesn't get her way. [histrionic: adjective]
theatrical
Example
The play had a great theatrical production with stunning visuals. [theatrical: adjective]
Example
He gave a theatrical performance that left the audience in awe. [theatrical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Theatrical is more commonly used than histrionic in everyday language, as it covers a wider range of contexts and has a more positive connotation. Histrionic is a more specific term that is typically used in psychology or clinical settings to describe personality disorders.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between histrionic and theatrical?
Both histrionic and theatrical can be used in formal and informal contexts, but histrionic may be perceived as more technical or clinical due to its association with personality disorders.
