What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
thesaurus
Example
I used a thesaurus to find a better word for 'happy'. [thesaurus: noun]
Example
She consulted the thesaurus to find a synonym for 'beautiful'. [thesaurus: noun]
dictionary
Example
I looked up the definition of 'perplexed' in the dictionary. [dictionary: noun]
Example
He checked the spelling of 'accommodation' in the dictionary. [dictionary: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Dictionary is more commonly used than thesaurus in everyday language since it provides essential information about words that people encounter regularly.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between thesaurus and dictionary?
Both thesaurus and dictionary can be used in formal and informal contexts, but dictionary is more versatile and can be used in various formality levels, including academic and professional settings.
