What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
homegrown
Example
I love using homegrown tomatoes in my cooking. [homegrown: adjective]
Example
The company started as a small homegrown business and has now expanded globally. [homegrown: adjective]
Example
He's a homegrown talent who grew up playing for the local soccer team. [homegrown: adjective]
indigenous
Example
The indigenous people of Australia have a rich cultural heritage. [indigenous: adjective]
Example
The flora and fauna of the Amazon rainforest are mostly indigenous species. [indigenous: adjective]
Example
The indigenous language of Hawaii is Hawaiian. [indigenous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Indigenous is more commonly used than homegrown in academic or formal contexts, especially in fields such as anthropology, biology, or history. Homegrown is more commonly used in informal contexts, such as gardening, cooking, or small business.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between homegrown and indigenous?
Indigenous is generally considered more formal and academic than homegrown, which is more casual and colloquial. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context and audience.
