What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
providential
Example
It was a providential coincidence that I ran into my old friend at the airport. [providential: adjective]
Example
The team's victory was seen as a providential turn of events. [providential: noun]
timely
Example
The timely arrival of the ambulance saved the patient's life. [timely: adjective]
Example
The manager made a timely decision to invest in new technology. [timely: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Timely is more commonly used than providential in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts. Providential is less common and is often used in a more formal or literary context.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between providential and timely?
While providential is typically associated with a more formal or literary tone, timely is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
