What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rudimentary
Example
The students were taught the rudimentary principles of mathematics. [rudimentary: adjective]
Example
The company's website had only a rudimentary design. [rudimentary: adjective]
primitive
Example
The archaeologists discovered primitive tools used by early humans. [primitive: adjective]
Example
The tribe lived in primitive huts made of mud and straw. [primitive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rudimentary is more commonly used than primitive in academic or technical contexts. Primitive is more commonly used in everyday language to describe cultural or historical artifacts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between rudimentary and primitive?
Rudimentary is generally considered more formal than primitive. It is often used in academic or technical writing, while primitive is more casual and can be used in everyday conversation.
