What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
thespian
Example
She has been a thespian for over a decade, performing in various plays and musicals. [thespian: noun]
Example
The thespian skills of the lead actor were praised by the critics. [thespian: adjective]
histrionic
Example
Her histrionic reaction to the news was unexpected and caused concern. [histrionic: adjective]
Example
The actor's histrionic performance was criticized for being too over-the-top. [histrionic: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Thespian is less common than histrionic in everyday language, as it is more specific and formal. However, it is commonly used in professional or academic settings related to theater or acting.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between thespian and histrionic?
Thespian is more formal than histrionic, as it is associated with the professional and academic world of theater and acting. Histrionic is more informal and used in everyday language to describe excessive or exaggerated behavior.