What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
poem
Example
She wrote a beautiful poem about the changing seasons. [poem: noun]
Example
He loves to read and write poetry in his free time. [poetry: noun]
verse
Example
The first verse of the poem sets the tone for the rest of the work. [verse: noun]
Example
The song has a catchy chorus and memorable verses. [verses: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Poem is more commonly used than verse in everyday language. Poem is a versatile term that covers a wide range of literary works, while verse is more specific and often associated with music or song lyrics.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between poem and verse?
Poem is typically associated with a more formal and artistic tone, while verse can be used in more casual or everyday contexts, such as in song lyrics or spoken word performances.