What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
iconographical
Example
The iconographical analysis of the painting revealed hidden meanings and symbolism. [iconographical: adjective]
Example
The artist used iconographical elements to represent the themes of the artwork. [iconographical: adjective]
pictorial
Example
The book was filled with pictorial representations of historical events. [pictorial: adjective]
Example
The artist created a pictorial narrative of the city's history through a series of paintings. [pictorial: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pictorial is more commonly used than iconographical in everyday language, as it is a more versatile term that can be used in a wider range of contexts. Iconographical is more commonly used in academic or scholarly contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between iconographical and pictorial?
Iconographical is a more formal and academic term than pictorial, which is more commonly used in popular or commercial contexts.