What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
north
Example
The compass needle always points north. [north: noun]
Example
We drove north for several hours before reaching the border. [north: adverb]
northern
Example
The northern lights are a spectacular natural phenomenon. [northern: adjective]
Example
I love the food from northern Thailand. [northern: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Northern is more commonly used than north in formal writing, academic contexts, and scientific research. However, north is more commonly used in everyday language and informal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between north and northern?
Northern is generally more formal than north, which is more commonly used in everyday language and informal contexts.
