What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
logographic
Example
Chinese characters are an example of a logographic writing system. [logographic: adjective]
Example
The ancient Egyptians used hieroglyphics, a logographic script, to record their history and beliefs. [logographic: adjective]
pictographic
Example
Cave paintings from prehistoric times are an example of pictographic communication. [pictographic: adjective]
Example
The Aztecs used a pictographic writing system called Nahuatl to record their history and culture. [pictographic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Logographic systems are more common than pictographic systems, as they have been used by many cultures throughout history and are still used today in languages such as Chinese and Japanese. Pictographic systems are less common and have been used primarily by indigenous cultures and ancient civilizations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between logographic and pictographic?
Both logographic and pictographic terms are technical and formal, as they refer to specific types of writing systems. However, logographic may be more commonly used in academic or linguistic contexts, while pictographic may be more associated with cultural or historical discussions.
