What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
hypocorism
Example
My grandmother calls me 'Jenny' as a hypocorism for Jennifer. [hypocorism: noun]
Example
He has a hypocorism for everyone in the office, like 'Bobby' for Robert and 'Liz' for Elizabeth. [hypocorism: noun]
nickname
Example
His nickname is 'Bear' because he's big and cuddly. [nickname: noun]
Example
She prefers to go by her nickname 'Sam' instead of her full name Samantha. [nickname: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nickname is more commonly used than hypocorism in everyday language. Nickname is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while hypocorism is less common and refers specifically to a term of endearment.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between hypocorism and nickname?
While hypocorism is typically associated with a more intimate or personal tone, nickname can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in a wider variety of situations.
