What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
troll
Example
Don't engage with trolls on social media, it only encourages them. [trolls: noun]
Example
The troll under the bridge demanded a toll from anyone who wanted to cross. [troll: noun]
Example
We went trolling for salmon in the river. [trolling: verb]
goblin
Example
The goblin stole my lunch from the fridge again. [goblin: noun]
Example
He's such a goblin, always taking more than his fair share. [goblin: noun]
Example
The adventurers encountered a group of goblins in the dungeon. [goblins: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Troll is more commonly used than goblin in everyday language, especially in online contexts. Goblin is less common and is mostly used in fantasy literature and gaming.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between troll and goblin?
Neither troll nor goblin is particularly formal or informal, and both can be used in a variety of contexts depending on the tone and purpose of the communication.
