What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
third
Example
She finished in third place in the race. [third: adjective]
Example
I ate a third of the pizza for dinner. [third: noun]
triple
Example
The recipe calls for triple the amount of flour. [triple: adjective]
Example
The company released a new product with triple the features of their previous model. [triple: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Third is more commonly used than triple in everyday language, as it has a wider range of applications and is more versatile. Triple is less common and more specific, often used in technical or specialized contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between third and triple?
Both third and triple are neutral in formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.