What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
preface
Example
The author wrote a preface to explain the inspiration behind the book. [preface: noun]
Example
Before I begin my presentation, let me preface it with a few words about our company's history. [preface: verb]
exordium
Example
The exordium of the speech was designed to capture the audience's attention and establish the speaker's authority. [exordium: noun]
Example
The writer used an exordium to set the stage for the rest of the essay. [exordium: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Preface is more commonly used than exordium in everyday language and is a more versatile term that can be used in a variety of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between preface and exordium?
Exordium is a more formal term than preface and is often used in academic or professional settings to establish the speaker's credibility and set the tone for the rest of the work.
