What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
original
Example
The Mona Lisa is an original painting by Leonardo da Vinci. [original: adjective]
Example
The original idea for the project came from our boss. [original: noun]
Example
She is an original thinker and always comes up with unique solutions. [original: adjective]
initial
Example
Please write your initials at the bottom of the page. [initials: noun]
Example
We are in the initial stages of planning the event. [initial: adjective]
Example
I need to take the initial step of contacting the company. [initial: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Initial is less common than original in everyday language, but it is still an important word to know for technical or formal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between original and initial?
Initial is generally considered more formal than original, and is often used in technical or academic writing.
