What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
preeminence
Example
The company's preeminence in the tech industry is well-known. [preeminence: noun]
Example
She has achieved preeminence in the field of medicine through her groundbreaking research. [preeminent: adjective]
supremacy
Example
The country's military supremacy was evident in its ability to defeat its enemies. [supremacy: noun]
Example
He believes in the supremacy of science over religion. [supreme: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Supremacy is more commonly used than preeminence in everyday language, especially in political or military contexts. Preeminence is less common and tends to be used in more specialized or academic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between preeminence and supremacy?
Both preeminence and supremacy are formal words, but preeminence may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with academic or intellectual contexts.