What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
portrayal
Example
The actor's portrayal of the villain was so convincing that it gave me chills. [portrayal: noun]
Example
The painting's portrayal of the sunset was breathtakingly beautiful. [portrayal: noun]
description
Example
Can you give me a description of the suspect? [description: noun]
Example
The author's description of the setting was so vivid that I felt like I was there. [description: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Description is more commonly used than portrayal in everyday language. Description is versatile and can be used in a wide range of contexts, while portrayal is more specific and often associated with the arts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between portrayal and description?
Both portrayal and description can be used in formal and informal contexts, but description is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.
