What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pictural
Example
The book is filled with pictural representations of different animals. [pictural: adjective]
Example
The artist's work is known for its pictural quality and attention to detail. [pictural: adjective]
pictorial
Example
The magazine is known for its pictorial coverage of current events. [pictorial: adjective]
Example
The children's book is filled with colorful pictorial illustrations. [pictorial: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pictorial is more commonly used than pictural in everyday language, especially in formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pictural and pictorial?
Pictorial is more commonly used in formal contexts, such as academic writing or journalism, while pictural is more commonly used in informal contexts.