What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tetrahedral
Example
The methane molecule has a tetrahedral shape. [tetrahedral: adjective]
Example
The pyramid has a tetrahedral shape with four equilateral triangles as its faces. [tetrahedral: adjective]
pyramidal
Example
The ammonia molecule has a pyramidal shape. [pyramidal: adjective]
Example
The Great Pyramid of Giza is a pyramidal structure with a square base and four triangular faces. [pyramidal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tetrahedral is more common in scientific contexts, especially in chemistry, while pyramidal is more common in geometric and architectural contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tetrahedral and pyramidal?
Both tetrahedral and pyramidal are technical terms and are typically used in formal contexts, such as academic writing or scientific research papers.