What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
optical
Example
The optical properties of the glass made it ideal for use in lenses. [optical: adjective]
Example
The microscope uses an optical lens to magnify the image. [optical: adjective]
ocular
Example
The ocular muscles control the movement of the eye. [ocular: adjective]
Example
The doctor used an ocular instrument to examine the patient's retina. [ocular: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Optical is more commonly used than ocular in everyday language. Optical has a broader scope and can refer to anything related to light or vision, making it more versatile and commonly used in various contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between optical and ocular?
Both optical and ocular are formal words that are commonly used in scientific or technical contexts. However, optical is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while ocular is more specific and is typically used in formal or medical contexts.
