What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nan
Example
My nan always makes the best apple pie. [nan: noun]
Example
I love spending time with my nan, she tells the best stories. [nan: noun]
grandmother
Example
My grandmother taught me how to knit when I was young. [grandmother: noun]
Example
I'm going to visit my grandmother this weekend. [grandmother: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Grandmother is more commonly used than nan in everyday language, especially in formal or professional contexts. Nan is less common and used mainly in informal or familial settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between nan and grandmother?
Grandmother is more formal and appropriate for use in professional or academic settings, while nan is more informal and used in everyday conversation.