What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mandarin
Example
I love eating mandarins as a snack. [mandarin: noun]
Example
She is fluent in Mandarin and can speak it with ease. [Mandarin: proper noun]
Example
The mandarin was known for his wisdom and leadership. [mandarin: noun]
tangerine
Example
I prefer tangerines over oranges because they are easier to peel. [tangerine: noun]
Example
She wore a tangerine dress to the party and stood out in the crowd. [tangerine: adjective]
Example
I went to get a tangerine massage to help with my back pain. [tangerine: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tangerine is more commonly used than mandarin in everyday language, especially when referring to the fruit. However, mandarin is more commonly used when referring to the Chinese language or culture.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mandarin and tangerine?
Both mandarin and tangerine can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but mandarin may be more formal when used to refer to the Chinese language or culture.
