What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
primeval
Example
The primeval forest was home to many rare and exotic species. [primeval: adjective]
Example
The cave paintings were a glimpse into the primeval world of our ancestors. [primeval: adjective]
ancient
Example
The ancient ruins of Rome attract millions of tourists every year. [ancient: adjective]
Example
The ancient Egyptians built the pyramids as tombs for their pharaohs. [ancient: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ancient is more commonly used than primeval in everyday language. Ancient is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while primeval is less common and refers to a more specific period in history.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between primeval and ancient?
Both primeval and ancient are formal words that are typically used in academic or literary contexts. However, ancient is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
