What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nickname
Example
My nickname is 'Bear' because I'm big and cuddly. [nickname: noun]
Example
She was nicknamed 'Red' because of her bright red hair. [nicknamed: past tense verb]
appellation
Example
The appellation 'Doctor' is used to refer to someone with a medical degree. [appellation: noun]
Example
The wine's appellation is 'Bordeaux' because it was produced in that region of France. [appellation: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nickname is more commonly used than appellation in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. Appellation is more commonly used in legal or official contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nickname and appellation?
Appellation is more formal than nickname and is often used in legal or official contexts. Nickname is more informal and is often used in casual or familiar contexts.
