What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
maidly
Example
She approached her duties with a maidly diligence. [maidly: adjective]
Example
He bowed his head in a maidly gesture of respect. [maidly: adverb]
maidenly
Example
She blushed at his maidenly compliments. [maidenly: adjective]
Example
She walked with a maidenly gait, her head held high. [maidenly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Maidenly is more commonly used than maidly in everyday language. Maidenly is versatile and can be used in various contexts, while maidly is less common and may sound outdated or archaic in modern contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between maidly and maidenly?
Both maidly and maidenly have a formal tone due to their historical or traditional connotation. However, maidly may sound more formal or archaic due to its less common usage.
