What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
imagination
Example
Her imagination ran wild as she read the fantasy novel. [imagination: noun]
Example
He imagined what it would be like to travel to space. [imagined: verb]
fancy
Example
She had a fancy for vintage clothing. [fancy: noun]
Example
He fancied himself a great writer. [fancied: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Imagination is a more common and versatile term than fancy. It is used in a wide range of contexts, from literature and art to science and technology. Fancy, on the other hand, is less frequently used and often employed in informal or colloquial contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between imagination and fancy?
Imagination is a more formal term than fancy. It is often used in academic or professional settings, while fancy is more commonly used in informal or everyday language.
