What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
parallax
Example
The parallax of the moon can be used to determine its distance from Earth. [parallax: noun]
Example
The parallax effect in web design creates an illusion of depth and movement. [parallax: adjective]
displacement
Example
The displacement of the boat caused a wave to form. [displacement: noun]
Example
The car's displacement was measured to be 2 meters. [displacement: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Displacement is more commonly used than parallax in everyday language, as it has a broader range of applications. Parallax is more specialized and is typically used in scientific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between parallax and displacement?
Parallax is a more technical and specialized term, and is therefore more formal than displacement. However, displacement can also be used in technical contexts and can be formal depending on the context.
