What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
peripheral
Example
The company's peripheral business units were sold off to focus on core operations. [peripheral: adjective]
Example
I need to buy a new peripheral for my computer, like a printer or scanner. [peripheral: noun]
secondary
Example
The secondary objective of the project was to increase customer satisfaction. [secondary: adjective]
Example
If the first treatment doesn't work, we can try a secondary option. [secondary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Secondary is more commonly used than peripheral in everyday language. Secondary is a more versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while peripheral is more specific to the context of technology and computing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between peripheral and secondary?
Both peripheral and secondary are considered formal words and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
