What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
travesty
Example
The trial was a travesty of justice. [travesty: noun]
Example
The comedian's impression of the politician was a travesty of his actual personality. [travesty: noun]
Example
The play was a travesty of Shakespeare's original work. [travesty: noun]
caricature
Example
The cartoonist drew a caricature of the politician with an oversized head and tiny body. [caricature: noun]
Example
The actor's portrayal of the historical figure was a caricature of his eccentricities. [caricature: noun]
Example
The author's depiction of the city as a dark and dangerous place was a caricature of urban life. [caricature: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Caricature is more commonly used than travesty in everyday language. Caricature is often associated with humor and satire, and can be found in various forms of media such as cartoons, comics, and political commentary. Travesty is less common and is typically used in more serious or critical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between travesty and caricature?
While caricature can be used in both formal and informal contexts, travesty is typically associated with a more formal tone due to its negative connotation and serious subject matter.