What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
silly
Example
The children were being silly and making funny faces. [silly: adjective]
Example
I know it sounds silly, but I believe in magic. [silly: adjective]
Example
It would be silly to go outside without a coat in the middle of winter. [silly: adjective]
absurd
Example
It's absurd to think that aliens have visited Earth. [absurd: adjective]
Example
The idea that the moon is made of cheese is completely absurd. [absurd: adjective]
Example
The absurdity of the situation left everyone speechless. [absurdity: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Silly is more commonly used than absurd in everyday language, especially in informal settings. Absurd is more often used in formal or academic contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between silly and absurd?
Absurd is generally considered more formal than silly. While silly can be used in both formal and informal contexts, absurd is more often used in formal writing or academic discussions.
