What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
quill
Example
The author dipped his quill into the inkwell and began to write. [quill: noun]
Example
In the olden days, people used quills to write letters and documents. [quills: plural noun]
pen
Example
I always carry a pen in my pocket in case I need to write something down. [pen: noun]
Example
She pens her thoughts and feelings in a journal every day. [pens: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Pen is more commonly used than quill in modern language. Pen is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while quill is less common and associated with historical or artistic writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between quill and pen?
Pen is typically associated with a more formal tone, while quill is more informal and artistic.
