What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
multisyllabic
Example
The word 'banana' is multisyllabic. [multisyllabic: adjective]
Example
She struggled to read the multisyllabic words in the book. [multisyllabic: adjective]
polysyllabic
Example
The word 'hippopotamus' is polysyllabic. [polysyllabic: adjective]
Example
He found it difficult to remember the meaning of the polysyllabic words. [polysyllabic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Multisyllabic is more commonly used than polysyllabic in everyday language. Multisyllabic is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while polysyllabic is more technical and formal, and is often used in academic or linguistic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between multisyllabic and polysyllabic?
Polysyllabic is more formal than multisyllabic. While multisyllabic can be used in both formal and informal contexts, polysyllabic is typically reserved for more technical or academic writing.
