What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
idol
Example
My idol is a famous singer who inspires me with her music. [idol: noun]
Example
He became an idol to many young people after winning the championship. [idol: noun]
Example
The K-pop group has a massive idol following in Asia. [idol: adjective]
celebrity
Example
The actress is a well-known celebrity who has starred in many popular movies. [celebrity: noun]
Example
The singer's personal life is often scrutinized by the media due to her celebrity status. [celebrity: adjective]
Example
The chef became a celebrity after hosting a popular cooking show on TV. [celebrity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Celebrity is more commonly used than idol in everyday language, especially in the context of entertainment news and media. However, idol is more common in certain cultures or subcultures, such as K-pop or anime fandoms.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between idol and celebrity?
Both idol and celebrity can be used in informal or formal contexts, depending on the tone and context of the sentence. However, celebrity is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, including academic or professional settings.