What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
madras
Example
He wore a madras shirt to the picnic. [madras: noun]
Example
She loves the madras pattern on her new dress. [madras: adjective]
tartan
Example
He wore a tartan kilt to the Scottish festival. [tartan: noun]
Example
She loves the tartan pattern on her new scarf. [tartan: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tartan is more commonly used than madras in everyday language, especially in regions where it has cultural significance, such as Scotland. However, both words may not be familiar to ESL learners who are not familiar with fashion or textile terminology.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between madras and tartan?
Both madras and tartan can be used in various formality levels, depending on the context and purpose. However, tartan may be more commonly associated with formal or traditional fashion, while madras may be more associated with casual or preppy fashion.
