What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
paragraph
Example
The first paragraph of the essay introduces the topic. [paragraph: noun]
Example
She wrote a paragraph about her favorite hobby. [paragraph: noun]
passage
Example
The passage describes the character's emotions in detail. [passage: noun]
Example
I read a passage from the novel to my class. [passage: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Paragraph is a more common term and is used in a variety of contexts, including both formal and informal writing. Passage is less common and is often used in academic or literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between paragraph and passage?
Both paragraph and passage are relatively formal terms that are commonly used in academic or professional writing. However, passage may be slightly more formal due to its association with literary works.
