What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
language
Example
English is a widely spoken language around the world. [language: noun]
Example
She has a good command of the English language. [language: noun]
Example
His language was full of metaphors and similes. [language: noun]
tongue
Example
He stuck his tongue out at me. [tongue: noun]
Example
She speaks Spanish fluently, it's her mother tongue. [tongue: noun]
Example
The locals speak with a distinct Southern tongue. [tongue: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Language is more commonly used than tongue in everyday language. Language is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while tongue is less common and often used in specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between language and tongue?
Language is more formal and academic than tongue. Language can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while tongue is more colloquial and informal, and is typically used in informal contexts.
