What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pillory
Example
The criminal was sentenced to stand in the pillory for three hours. [pillory: noun]
Example
The politician was pilloried in the press for his controversial remarks. [pilloried: past participle]
stocks
Example
The thief was locked in the stocks for stealing bread. [stocks: noun]
Example
The comedian was subjected to the stocks during his performance. [stocks: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stocks is more commonly used than pillory in everyday language. However, both words are archaic and are not commonly used in modern times.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between pillory and stocks?
Both pillory and stocks are formal words that are not commonly used in everyday conversation. They are more likely to be used in historical or legal contexts.
