What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
multicultural
Example
The city is known for its multicultural population, with people from all over the world living together. [multicultural: adjective]
Example
The festival showcases a variety of cultural traditions and performances, highlighting the city's multiculturalism. [multiculturalism: noun]
cosmopolitan
Example
She's a cosmopolitan woman who has lived in several countries and speaks multiple languages. [cosmopolitan: adjective]
Example
The city is known for its cosmopolitan vibe, with a diverse range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options. [cosmopolitan: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Multicultural is more commonly used than cosmopolitan in everyday language, especially in discussions about diversity and inclusion. Cosmopolitan is more commonly used in high-end fashion and lifestyle magazines, as well as in discussions about global citizenship and travel.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between multicultural and cosmopolitan?
Cosmopolitan is generally considered more formal and sophisticated than multicultural, which has a more casual and inclusive tone. However, both words can be used in a variety of formality levels depending on the context.