What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nought
Example
The result of the equation was nought. [nought: noun]
Example
All his efforts came to nought. [nought: noun]
Example
He was considered a nought by his colleagues. [nought: noun]
nil
Example
The final score was nil-nil. [nil: adjective]
Example
His chances of winning were reduced to nil. [nil: noun]
Example
The contribution of the new employee was nil. [nil: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nil is more commonly used than nought in everyday language, especially in American English and sports contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nought and nil?
Nil is more formal than nought, which is more commonly used in informal contexts.
