What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
leal
Example
He was known for his leal and honest character. [leal: adjective]
Example
She remained leal to her beliefs despite the opposition. [leal: adverb]
loyal
Example
He remained loyal to his friend even when others turned against him. [loyal: adjective]
Example
The company's loyal customers were rewarded with special discounts. [loyal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Loyal is more commonly used than leal in modern English. Loyal is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while leal is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between leal and loyal?
Leal has a slightly formal connotation due to its archaic roots, while loyal is a more versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts.