What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tops
Example
The tops of the trees were swaying in the wind. [tops: noun]
Example
We reached the tops of the mountains after a long hike. [tops: noun]
Example
She scored in the top percentile on her exam. [top: adjective]
peak
Example
The peak of the mountain was covered in snow. [peak: noun]
Example
The stock market reached its peak last year. [peak: noun]
Example
Her performance peaked during the final act of the play. [peaked: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Top is more commonly used than peak in everyday language, as it is a more versatile term that can be used in a wider range of contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between tops and peak?
Both tops and peak are relatively formal words that are appropriate for use in academic or professional writing.
