What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
labial
Example
The 'p' sound is a labial consonant. [labial: adjective]
Example
She applied some lip balm to her dry, chapped labial skin. [labial: adjective]
Example
The saxophonist expertly played the labial instrument. [labial: noun]
lip
Example
She bit her lip nervously as she waited for the results. [lip: noun]
Example
The mug has a small lip that makes it easy to drink from. [lip: noun]
Example
He gave me some lip when I asked him to do his chores. [lip: slang noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lip is more commonly used than labial in everyday language, as it has a wider range of meanings and is more versatile. Labial is more commonly used in technical or scientific contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between labial and lip?
Labial is more formal than lip, as it is primarily used in technical or scientific contexts. Lip is more colloquial and informal, and can be used in a wide range of contexts, from everyday conversation to slang expressions.
