What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
salient
Example
The salient feature of the new phone is its long battery life. [salient: adjective]
Example
The mountain range has several salient peaks that are visible from miles away. [salient: adjective]
Example
The speaker made several salient points during the presentation. [salient: adjective]
outstanding
Example
The athlete gave an outstanding performance at the championship game. [outstanding: adjective]
Example
The company has an outstanding balance on their account. [outstanding: adjective]
Example
The professor is an outstanding scholar in the field of literature. [outstanding: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Outstanding is more commonly used than salient in everyday language, and it has a wider range of applications. Salient is more specific and often used in academic or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between salient and outstanding?
Salient is more formal than outstanding, and it is often used in academic or technical writing. Outstanding is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
