What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mime
Example
The mime artist performed a silent skit that had the audience in stitches. [mime: noun]
Example
She mimed the actions of the bird, flapping her arms and chirping. [mimed: past tense verb]
pantomimist
Example
The pantomimist captivated the audience with his hilarious portrayal of a bumbling clown. [pantomimist: noun]
Example
She was skilled at pantomiming different animals, from crawling like a cat to slithering like a snake. [pantomiming: present participle verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mime is more commonly used than pantomime in everyday language, especially when referring to the performance art form. Pantomime is more commonly used in the UK and other English-speaking countries to refer to a specific type of theatrical performance.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between mime and pantomimist?
Both mime and pantomime are informal terms that are used in casual conversation and entertainment contexts. However, pantomimist may be considered more formal than mime artist when referring to a professional performer of pantomime.
