What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
instrumental
Example
The new software was instrumental in increasing productivity. [instrumental: adjective]
Example
She was instrumental in organizing the charity event. [instrumental: adjective]
Example
The guitar was his instrumental of choice for playing music. [instrumental: noun]
useful
Example
The new app is very useful for tracking expenses. [useful: adjective]
Example
He's a very useful employee to have on the team. [useful: adjective]
Example
Learning a foreign language can be useful for traveling. [useful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Useful is more commonly used than instrumental in everyday language. Useful is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while instrumental is less common and typically used in more formal or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between instrumental and useful?
Instrumental is typically associated with a more formal or professional tone, while useful is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
