What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
toothlike
Example
The leaves of the saw-tooth oak tree have toothlike edges. [toothlike: adjective]
Example
The shark's fin had toothlike projections along its spine. [toothlike: adjective]
cuspate
Example
The cuspate shape of the seashell made it easy to identify. [cuspate: adjective]
Example
The coastline had several cuspate formations jutting out into the ocean. [cuspate: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Toothlike is less common than cuspate in everyday language. Cuspate is a more versatile term that can be used in a wider range of contexts, while toothlike is more specific and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between toothlike and cuspate?
Both toothlike and cuspate are relatively formal terms, but cuspate is more commonly used in academic or scientific contexts due to its application in geology and geography.
