What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
knockoff
Example
She bought a knockoff designer bag from a street vendor. [knockoff: noun]
Example
The store sells knockoff versions of popular sneakers at a lower price. [knockoff: adjective]
counterfeit
Example
He was caught selling counterfeit money to unsuspecting customers. [counterfeit: adjective]
Example
The company discovered that their products were being counterfeited and sold on the black market. [counterfeit: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Counterfeit is a more commonly used term than knockoff in everyday language, as it is associated with illegal activity and has a stronger negative connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between knockoff and counterfeit?
Both knockoff and counterfeit are informal terms, but counterfeit may be used in more formal contexts when discussing legal or financial matters.
