What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
painterliness
Example
The painterliness of the artwork was evident in the thick layers of paint and visible brushstrokes. [painterliness: noun]
Example
The artist used painterliness to create a sense of movement and emotion in the painting. [painterliness: adjective]
brushwork
Example
The artist's brushwork was loose and expressive, creating a sense of movement and energy in the painting. [brushwork: noun]
Example
She admired the delicate brushwork of the old master's paintings. [brushwork: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Brushwork is a more common term than painterliness, as it is used more frequently by artists themselves to describe their own techniques and styles. Painterliness is more commonly used in art criticism and analysis.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between painterliness and brushwork?
Both painterliness and brushwork are formal terms that are typically used in art criticism and analysis. However, brushwork may be slightly more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.