What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
provenance
Example
The provenance of this painting is unclear, but it is believed to have been created in the 18th century. [provenance: noun]
Example
The museum was able to trace the provenance of the sculpture back to its original owner. [provenance: noun]
pedigree
Example
The dog's pedigree includes several champion bloodlines. [pedigree: noun]
Example
The company has a long pedigree of producing high-quality products. [pedigree: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Provenance is less common than pedigree in everyday language. Provenance is more specialized and is mainly used in the context of art, antiques, and collectibles. Pedigree, on the other hand, is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, including animals, people, and products.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between provenance and pedigree?
Provenance is more formal than pedigree. It is often used in academic or professional settings, while pedigree is more commonly used in everyday language.
