What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ingenious
Example
The engineer came up with an ingenious design for the new bridge. [ingenious: adjective]
Example
She is an ingenious artist who creates beautiful sculptures from recycled materials. [ingenious: adjective]
innovative
Example
The company's innovative approach to sustainability has earned them many awards. [innovative: adjective]
Example
He is an innovative thinker who is always coming up with new ideas. [innovative: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Innovative is more commonly used than ingenious in everyday language. Innovative is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts, from technology to business to art. Ingenious, on the other hand, is less common and tends to be used in more specific or niche contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between ingenious and innovative?
Innovative is generally considered more formal than ingenious. While both words can be used in both formal and informal contexts, innovative is often associated with more serious or professional contexts, while ingenious can have a slightly more playful or informal connotation.