What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
testamentary
Example
The executor of the estate filed a testamentary petition with the court. [testamentary: adjective]
Example
The will included a testamentary trust for the benefit of the children. [testamentary: adjective]
posthumous
Example
The author's posthumous novel was published a year after his death. [posthumous: adjective]
Example
The artist's posthumous exhibition showcased previously unseen works. [posthumous: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Posthumous is more commonly used than testamentary in everyday language. Posthumous is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while testamentary is less common and is mostly used in legal contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between testamentary and posthumous?
Testamentary is typically associated with a formal and legal tone, while posthumous can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.