What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sportive
Example
The children were feeling sportive and energetic after recess. [sportive: adjective]
Example
The company organized a sportive event for its employees to encourage teamwork. [sportive: noun]
sprightly
Example
The elderly woman was surprisingly sprightly and active for her age. [sprightly: adjective]
Example
The music was so sprightly that it made everyone want to dance. [sprightly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sprightly is less common than sportive in everyday language, but it is still a recognizable word with a positive connotation. Sportive is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts, making it more common in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between sportive and sprightly?
Sportive is more formal than sprightly and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Sprightly is more informal and casual, making it more appropriate for informal situations or conversations.