What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
picturesque
Example
The small town was nestled in a picturesque valley surrounded by mountains. [picturesque: adjective]
Example
The artist painted a picturesque landscape of the countryside. [picturesque: adjective]
quaint
Example
The bed and breakfast had a quaint charm with its antique furniture and decor. [quaint: adjective]
Example
The village was full of quaint shops and cafes, each with its own unique character. [quaint: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Picturesque is more commonly used than quaint in everyday language. Picturesque is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while quaint is less common and refers to something that is charmingly unusual or old-fashioned.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between picturesque and quaint?
Both picturesque and quaint are associated with a formal and literary tone, but picturesque is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.