What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
isle
Example
The isle was covered in lush vegetation and surrounded by crystal-clear waters. [isle: noun]
Example
The Scottish isles are known for their rugged terrain and stunning landscapes. [isles: plural noun]
islet
Example
The islet was barely visible from the shore, but it was home to a variety of seabirds. [islet: noun]
Example
The archipelago was made up of dozens of tiny islets, each with its own distinct flora and fauna. [islets: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Isle is more commonly used than islet in everyday language. Isle is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while islet is less common and is often used in scientific or technical contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between isle and islet?
Both isle and islet are considered formal words and are appropriate for use in academic, scientific, or literary contexts.