What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
placidly
Example
She spoke placidly, without any hint of anger or frustration. [placidly: adverb]
Example
The lake was placidly still, reflecting the surrounding mountains. [placidly: adverb]
tranquilly
Example
The yoga instructor guided us to breathe deeply and move tranquilly. [tranquilly: adverb]
Example
The garden was filled with the sweet scent of flowers and the sound of birds chirping tranquilly. [tranquilly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tranquilly is less common than placidly in everyday language, but both words are still used in formal and literary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between placidly and tranquilly?
Both placidly and tranquilly are considered formal words, and are more likely to be used in written language than in casual conversation.
