What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
quinzaine
Example
I'll be back in a quinzaine of days. [quinzaine: noun]
Example
The project is due in a quinzaine, so we need to work quickly. [quinzaine: noun]
fortnight
Example
I'm going on vacation for a fortnight. [fortnight: noun]
Example
We have a fortnight to finish the project, so let's get started. [fortnight: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fortnight is more commonly used than quinzaine in everyday conversation, especially in British English-speaking countries. Quinzaine is less common and is mainly used in French-speaking countries.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between quinzaine and fortnight?
Both quinzaine and fortnight are considered formal words and are not commonly used in informal conversation. However, fortnight may be more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while quinzaine is mainly used in formal writing or speech.