What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
spinoff
Example
The popular TV show Friends had a spinoff called Joey. [spinoff: noun]
Example
The company's success led to the spinoff of several new businesses. [spinoff: noun]
offshoot
Example
The offshoot company specializes in producing organic skincare products. [offshoot: noun]
Example
The new theory was an offshoot of the original hypothesis. [offshoot: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Spinoff is more commonly used than offshoot in everyday language, especially in the entertainment and business industries. Offshoot is less common but can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between spinoff and offshoot?
Both spinoff and offshoot are relatively informal words, but spinoff may be slightly more formal due to its association with the business industry.