What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subcategory
Example
The subcategory of fruits includes apples, oranges, and bananas. [subcategory: noun]
Example
This product falls under the subcategory of electronics. [subcategorize: verb]
subgroup
Example
The subgroup of the soccer team consists of the forwards. [subgroup: noun]
Example
We need to subgroup the data to get more accurate results. [subgrouping: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Subcategory is more commonly used than subgroup in academic and professional contexts, especially in the context of classification systems. However, both words are less common in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between subcategory and subgroup?
Both subcategory and subgroup are formal words that are typically used in academic or professional contexts. However, subcategory may be slightly more formal due to its association with classification systems and taxonomies.
