What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
semisentimental
Example
The movie was semisentimental, with just enough emotional moments to keep the audience engaged. [semisentimental: adjective]
Example
She was feeling semisentimental as she looked through old family photos. [semisentimental: adjective]
mawkish
Example
The movie was mawkish, with over-the-top emotional scenes that felt forced. [mawkish: adjective]
Example
She was being mawkish when she started crying at the sight of a puppy. [mawkish: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mawkish is more commonly used than semisentimental in everyday language. Mawkish is often used to describe works of art or literature that are overly sentimental or emotional, while semisentimental is a less common word that is typically used in more formal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between semisentimental and mawkish?
Semisentimental is a more formal word than mawkish, and is typically used in academic or literary contexts. Mawkish is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
