What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
martinet
Example
The coach was a martinet, always pushing the players to their limits. [martinet: noun]
Example
She was a martinet when it came to punctuality, never tolerating any lateness. [martinet: adjective]
stickler
Example
He was a stickler for grammar, always correcting others' mistakes. [stickler: noun]
Example
She was sticklerish about the presentation, making sure everything was perfect. [sticklerish: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stickler is more commonly used than martinet in everyday language. Stickler is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while martinet is less common and may be considered outdated or old-fashioned.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between martinet and stickler?
Both martinet and stickler are formal words that are typically used in more serious or professional contexts. However, stickler may be used in more casual situations as well, while martinet is more likely to be used in historical or literary contexts.