What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
populous
Example
Tokyo is one of the most populous cities in the world. [populous: adjective]
Example
The populous region of the country is experiencing rapid growth. [populous: noun]
crowded
Example
The subway was so crowded that I could barely move. [crowded: adjective]
Example
The concert was so crowded that we had to stand in the back. [crowded: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Crowded is more commonly used than populous in everyday language. Crowded is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while populous is less common and is typically used in more formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between populous and crowded?
Populous is typically associated with a formal tone, while crowded is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.