What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
nought
Example
The final score was three nought. [nought: noun]
Example
I have nought interest in that topic. [nought: pronoun]
zero
Example
The temperature outside is zero degrees Celsius. [zero: adjective]
Example
She scored zero points in the game. [zero: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Zero is more commonly used than nought in everyday language, especially in American English. Zero is also more versatile and can be used in various contexts, while nought is less common and has more limited usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between nought and zero?
Nought can be associated with a more formal or old-fashioned tone, while zero is more neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
