What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
marginalia
Example
The scholar's copy of the book was filled with marginalia, providing insights into their thought process. [marginalia: noun]
Example
She liked to make marginalia in her textbooks to help her remember important points. [marginalia: plural noun]
comments
Example
The editor's comments helped the writer improve their manuscript. [comments: noun]
Example
He commented on the article, sharing his thoughts and opinions. [commented: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Comments is more commonly used than marginalia in everyday language. Comments is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while marginalia is less common and is typically associated with literary or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between marginalia and comments?
While marginalia can be informal and personal, comments can vary in formality depending on the context and audience. Comments can be used in both formal and informal contexts, making it more versatile than marginalia.