What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
middlebrow
Example
The book club focuses on middlebrow literature that appeals to a wide audience. [middlebrow: adjective]
Example
She has a middlebrow interest in classical music, but is not a serious collector. [middlebrow: noun]
mainstream
Example
The movie was a hit in the mainstream market, grossing millions at the box office. [mainstream: adjective]
Example
He prefers to listen to indie music rather than mainstream pop songs. [mainstream: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mainstream is a more common word than middlebrow, and is used in a wider range of contexts. Middlebrow is a more niche term that is often used in discussions of culture and the arts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between middlebrow and mainstream?
Both middlebrow and mainstream are relatively informal words that can be used in casual conversation. However, middlebrow may be seen as slightly more formal due to its association with culture and the arts.
