What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
periscope
Example
The soldier used a periscope to survey the battlefield. [periscope: noun]
Example
The submarine captain looked through the periscope to see if there were any ships nearby. [periscope: noun]
telescope
Example
The astronomer used a telescope to observe the movement of the stars. [telescope: noun]
Example
I brought my telescope to the park to watch the birds. [telescope: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Telescope is more commonly used than periscope in everyday language. Telescope is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while periscope is less common and is mostly associated with military or submarine use.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between periscope and telescope?
While periscope is typically associated with a formal or technical tone, telescope is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.