What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
superscribe
Example
Please superscribe the envelope with the recipient's address. [superscribe: verb]
Example
The artist decided to superscribe the painting with a meaningful quote. [superscribed: past tense]
inscribe
Example
The artist inscribed his name on the bottom of the sculpture. [inscribed: past tense]
Example
She decided to inscribe the book with a personal message before giving it as a gift. [inscribe: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Inscribe is more commonly used than superscribe in everyday language. Inscribe is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while superscribe is less common and typically used in more formal or bureaucratic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between superscribe and inscribe?
While superscribe is typically associated with a formal or bureaucratic tone, inscribe can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.