What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
postural
Example
Poor postural habits can lead to back pain and discomfort. [postural: adjective]
Example
The physical therapist assessed the patient's postural alignment. [postural: adjective]
positional
Example
The positional relationship between the two objects affected their interaction. [positional: adjective]
Example
The coach instructed the players on their positional responsibilities on the field. [positional: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Positional is more commonly used than postural in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications and a more general connotation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between postural and positional?
While both words can be used in formal contexts, postural is more likely to be used in medical or anatomical settings, while positional is more versatile and can be used in a variety of formality levels.