What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lapis
Example
The artist used lapis paint to create a vivid blue sky. [lapis: adjective]
Example
The necklace was made of lapis lazuli beads. [lapis lazuli: noun]
azurite
Example
The painting featured shades of azurite and emerald green. [azurite: noun]
Example
The azurite stone was set in a silver ring. [azurite: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lapis is more commonly used than azurite in everyday language, especially when referring to the color blue. However, both words are relatively uncommon and may not be familiar to beginner ESL learners.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lapis and azurite?
Both lapis and azurite are considered formal words and are more likely to be used in academic or artistic contexts rather than everyday conversation.
