What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rapier
Example
The fencer lunged forward with his rapier. [rapier: noun]
Example
Her rapier wit left her opponents speechless. [rapier: adjective]
Example
He made a rapier-like move to avoid the defender. [rapier: adverb]
epee
Example
The fencer parried the opponent's attack with his epee. [epee: noun]
Example
She won the epee competition at the national level. [epee: adjective]
Example
He executed the move with epee-like precision. [epee: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Epee is more commonly used than rapier in modern fencing competitions. Rapier is less common and is mostly used in historical reenactments and theatrical performances.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between rapier and epee?
Both rapier and epee are formal words that are typically used in specific contexts such as fencing or historical reenactments. However, epee is more commonly used in modern competitive fencing, making it slightly more formal than rapier in that context.
