What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
skald
Example
The skald recited a poem about the great battle that took place centuries ago. [skald: noun]
Example
He was known for his skill as a skald, composing songs that celebrated the bravery of warriors. [skald: adjective]
bard
Example
The bard sang a ballad about the legendary hero who saved the kingdom from a dragon. [bard: noun]
Example
She was a talented bard who could play multiple instruments and write her own songs. [bard: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bard is more commonly used than skald in everyday language. Bard has a wider range of contexts and can be used to describe poets and musicians from various cultures, while skald is less common and is mostly associated with Norse culture.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between skald and bard?
Both skald and bard are formal words that are typically used in academic or historical contexts. However, bard is more versatile and can also be used in informal settings, such as describing a singer-songwriter or a street performer.
