What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mediocrity
Example
The team's mediocrity was evident in their performance this season. [mediocrity: noun]
Example
He was disappointed with his mediocrity in the exam, as he had hoped for better results. [mediocrity: noun]
ordinary
Example
I'm just an ordinary person, nothing special. [ordinary: adjective]
Example
The food at the restaurant was good, but nothing out of the ordinary. [ordinary: phrase]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ordinary is a more common word than mediocrity and is used more frequently in everyday language. Ordinary is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while mediocrity is less common and refers to a lack of excellence or distinction in a particular field or activity.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between mediocrity and ordinary?
Both mediocrity and ordinary are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
