What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
median
Example
The median income for this region is $50,000. [median: noun]
Example
The median age of the population is 35 years. [median: adjective]
middle
Example
She sat in the middle of the room. [middle: noun]
Example
We are in the middle of a pandemic. [middle: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Middle is more commonly used than median in everyday language. Middle is a common word that can be used in many different contexts, while median is a more technical term that is primarily used in mathematical or statistical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between median and middle?
Median is more formal than middle due to its technical connotation and specific usage in mathematical or statistical contexts. Middle is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
