What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ligneous
Example
The tree had a ligneous trunk that was difficult to cut. [ligneous: adjective]
Example
The carpenter used a saw to cut through the ligneous board. [ligneous: adjective]
fibrous
Example
The celery stalks had fibrous strings that needed to be removed. [fibrous: adjective]
Example
The rope was made of fibrous material that could withstand heavy weight. [fibrous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fibrous is more commonly used than ligneous in everyday language. Fibrous is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ligneous is less common and refers specifically to the texture of wood or woody plants.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ligneous and fibrous?
Both ligneous and fibrous are formal words that are typically used in scientific or technical contexts to describe the properties of materials or plants.