What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
islet
Example
The boat sailed past a small islet in the middle of the ocean. [islet: noun]
Example
The islet was too small to support any significant flora or fauna. [islet: adjective]
island
Example
Hawaii is a group of islands in the Pacific Ocean. [island: noun]
Example
The island was home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. [island: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Island is a more common word than islet in everyday language. Island is used to describe a variety of landmasses, from small to large, while islet is a more specific term for a very small landmass.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between islet and island?
Both islet and island are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
