What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
pointed
Example
The pencil has a pointed tip. [pointed: adjective]
Example
She made a pointed remark about his behavior. [pointed: adjective]
Example
He asked a pointed question about the company's finances. [pointed: adjective]
tapered
Example
The candle has a tapered shape. [tapered: adjective]
Example
She wore a pair of tapered jeans. [tapered: adjective]
Example
The company had to implement a tapered budget due to financial constraints. [tapered: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tapered is more commonly used than pointed in everyday language. Tapered is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while pointed is less common and often used in specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between pointed and tapered?
Both pointed and tapered can be used in formal and informal contexts, but pointed may be associated with a more negative or critical tone, while tapered is generally neutral or positive.
