What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
maternal
Example
She has a maternal instinct that makes her a great caregiver. [maternal: adjective]
Example
The maternal bond between a mother and child is strong and unbreakable. [maternal: noun]
nurturing
Example
The teacher was nurturing and supportive, which helped the students feel confident. [nurturing: adjective]
Example
Parents play a crucial role in nurturing their children's emotional and social development. [nurturing: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nurturing is a more commonly used word than maternal in everyday language. Nurturing is versatile and can be applied to various contexts, while maternal is more specific and less commonly used.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between maternal and nurturing?
Both maternal and nurturing can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, maternal may have a more traditional and conservative connotation, while nurturing can have a more modern and progressive connotation.
