What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
lexicographically
Example
The words in the dictionary are arranged lexicographically. [lexicographically: adverb]
Example
The names were sorted lexicographically, from A to Z. [lexicographically: adverb]
alphabetically
Example
The list of names was arranged alphabetically. [alphabetically: adverb]
Example
The books on the shelf were organized alphabetically by author's last name. [alphabetically: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Alphabetically is more commonly used in everyday language, while lexicographically is more commonly used in computer science and mathematics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between lexicographically and alphabetically?
Both terms are formal and technical, but lexicographically is more technical and precise than alphabetically.
