What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
proprietary
Example
The recipe for the sauce is proprietary and cannot be shared with anyone. [proprietary: adjective]
Example
The company has a proprietary software that they use for their operations. [proprietary: adjective]
proprietorial
Example
He had a proprietorial attitude towards his car, not letting anyone else drive it. [proprietorial: adjective]
Example
She felt proprietorial over the project, even though it was a team effort. [proprietorial: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Proprietary is a more common word than proprietorial in everyday language. Proprietary is widely used in business, technology, and legal contexts, while proprietorial is less common and more informal.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between proprietary and proprietorial?
Proprietary is a more formal word than proprietorial. It is often used in professional or technical writing, while proprietorial is more colloquial and informal.
