What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
quarter
Example
The pizza was cut into quarters so that everyone could have a slice. [quarter: noun]
Example
We are in the first quarter of the year, which means it's time for spring cleaning. [quarter: noun]
Example
I found a quarter on the street and used it to buy some gum. [quarter: noun]
term
Example
The term 'dog' refers to a domesticated mammal with four legs and a tail. [term: noun]
Example
The company plans to expand its operations over the long term. [term: noun]
Example
I'm taking three classes this term, including math, science, and history. [term: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Term is more commonly used than quarter in everyday language. Term is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while quarter is less common and is mainly used in financial contexts or to describe a specific division of something.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between quarter and term?
Both quarter and term can be used in formal and informal contexts, but term is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of formality levels.