What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
remainder
Example
I ate half the pizza, and the remainder is in the fridge. [remainder: noun]
Example
There are only three pieces of cake left; can I have the remainder? [remainder: noun]
Example
We have 10 minutes left; let's use the remainder of the time to review our notes. [remainder: noun]
remnant
Example
The tailor used the remnant of fabric to make a patch for the shirt. [remnant: noun]
Example
The ruins of the castle are the only remnants of the once-great fortress. [remnants: plural noun]
Example
The remnant of the tribe still practices their traditional customs and beliefs. [remnant: singular noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Remainder is more commonly used than remnant in everyday language. Remainder is a more general term that can be used in various contexts, while remnant is more specific and often used in the context of physical objects.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between remainder and remnant?
Both remainder and remnant are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
