What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
idol
Example
My grandmother is my idol because of her strength and kindness. [idol: noun]
Example
The statue of Buddha is an important idol in many Buddhist traditions. [idol: noun]
Example
Beyonce is a pop idol with millions of fans around the world. [idol: adjective]
icon
Example
The Nike swoosh is an iconic logo recognized worldwide. [iconic: adjective]
Example
Martin Luther King Jr. is an icon of the civil rights movement. [icon: noun]
Example
The Beatles are considered icons of the 1960s counterculture. [icons: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Icon is more commonly used than idol in everyday language. Icon is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while idol is less common and often associated with pop culture and entertainment.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between idol and icon?
Both idol and icon can be used in formal and informal contexts, but icon is generally viewed as more formal due to its association with art, politics, and history.
