What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tens
Example
The temperature is in the mid-tens today. [tens: noun]
Example
I need to buy tens of balloons for the party. [tens: adjective]
Example
The twenties and thirties were tumultuous decades in history. [decades: noun]
decade
Example
The company celebrated its tenth anniversary last year. [decade: noun]
Example
The 1920s was a decade of prosperity and cultural change. [decade: noun]
Example
We are approaching the end of this decade and the start of a new one. [decade: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tens is more commonly used in mathematical contexts, while decade is more commonly used in historical or anniversary contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tens and decade?
Both tens and decade are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
