What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tomfoolishness
Example
The children were engaged in tomfoolishness, playing pranks on each other. [tomfoolishness: noun]
Example
He was known for his tomfoolishness, always making people laugh with his silly jokes. [tomfoolishness: noun]
foolery
Example
His foolery got him into trouble with the law. [foolery: noun]
Example
She was tired of his foolery and decided to end the relationship. [foolery: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Foolery is more commonly used than tomfoolishness in everyday language. Foolery is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while tomfoolishness is less common and has a more specific meaning.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tomfoolishness and foolery?
Both tomfoolishness and foolery are informal words that are typically used in casual or humorous contexts. However, foolery can also be used in more formal settings to describe inappropriate or disrespectful behavior.
