What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subarctic
Example
The subarctic climate of Canada's Yukon Territory is known for its long, cold winters. [subarctic: adjective]
Example
The boreal forest is a subarctic biome that covers vast areas of Canada and Russia. [subarctic: noun]
arctic
Example
The Arctic Circle is an imaginary line at 66.5 degrees north of the equator. [Arctic: noun]
Example
The Arctic climate is one of the harshest on Earth, with temperatures that can drop below -50 degrees Celsius. [Arctic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Arctic is a more commonly used term than subarctic, likely due to its association with extreme conditions and iconic wildlife. However, both terms are important in scientific research and exploration of northern regions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between subarctic and arctic?
Both subarctic and Arctic are formal terms used in scientific and academic contexts. However, Arctic may be more commonly used in everyday language and media due to its association with extreme conditions and popular culture references.
