What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ridiculous
Example
It's ridiculous to think that we can finish this project in one day. [ridiculous: adjective]
Example
The way he tried to fix the car was so ridiculous that we couldn't help but laugh. [ridiculous: adjective]
silly
Example
The children were making silly faces at each other during class. [silly: adjective]
Example
I know it's silly, but I really like wearing my lucky socks on game day. [silly: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Silly is more commonly used than ridiculous in everyday language. Silly is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ridiculous is less common and is typically used in more specific contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between ridiculous and silly?
Ridiculous is typically associated with a more formal tone, while silly is more casual and informal.