What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
prologue
Example
The prologue of the novel provided important background information about the characters. [prologue: noun]
Example
The director gave a prologue before the start of the play, explaining the historical context. [prologue: noun]
Example
Let me begin with a prologue to give you some context for my presentation. [prologue: noun]
foreword
Example
The foreword to the book was written by a famous author who praised the work. [foreword: noun]
Example
The editor wrote a foreword to the new edition of the book, explaining its relevance today. [foreword: noun]
Example
The CEO gave a brief foreword at the start of the conference, welcoming the attendees. [foreword: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Foreword is more commonly used than prologue in everyday language, especially in the context of books. However, prologue is still used in literature and theater.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between prologue and foreword?
Both prologue and foreword are formal words, but foreword is more commonly used in formal contexts such as academic or professional writing.