What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
subcontinent
Example
India is often referred to as the Indian subcontinent. [subcontinent: noun]
Example
The subcontinent of South Asia includes countries like India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. [subcontinent: noun]
region
Example
The wine region of Napa Valley is known for producing high-quality wines. [region: noun]
Example
The Amazon rainforest is a region that spans across several countries in South America. [region: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Region is a more commonly used term than subcontinent in everyday language. Region is a versatile term that can be used to describe any area with shared characteristics, while subcontinent is a more specific term that is typically used to describe a particular area of the world.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between subcontinent and region?
Both subcontinent and region are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.