What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rarity
Example
The stamp collection contains many items of great rarity. [rarity: noun]
Example
It's a rarity to see snow in this part of the country. [rarity: noun]
rareness
Example
The rareness of the bird made it an exciting sighting for the birdwatchers. [rareness: noun]
Example
The dish was prepared with a rareness of ingredients that made it truly unique. [rareness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rarity is more commonly used than rareness in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between rarity and rareness?
Both rarity and rareness can be used in formal and informal contexts, but rarity is more commonly used and may be considered slightly more formal due to its association with valuable or collectible items.