What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
khan
Example
Genghis Khan was a famous Mongol leader. [Khan: noun]
Example
The caravan stopped at a khan to rest for the night. [Khan: noun]
Example
He is a khan of the tech industry, having founded several successful startups. [Khan: noun]
sultan
Example
Suleiman the Magnificent was a famous Ottoman sultan. [Sultan: noun]
Example
The sultan of Brunei is one of the richest people in the world. [Sultan: noun]
Example
She is the sultan of the fashion industry, with her designs being worn by celebrities around the world. [Sultan: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sultan is more commonly used than khan in everyday language, especially in the context of Islamic history and culture. Khan is less common and may be unfamiliar to some English learners.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between khan and sultan?
Both khan and sultan have formal connotations due to their association with leadership and authority. However, sultan may have a slightly more formal tone due to its historical and cultural significance.
