What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
validity
Example
The validity of the IQ test has been questioned by some researchers. [validity: noun]
Example
The study's validity was confirmed by the consistent results across multiple trials. [validity: noun]
reliability
Example
The reliability of the scale was tested by administering it twice to the same group of participants. [reliability: noun]
Example
The results of the experiment were deemed reliable due to the high level of agreement among the researchers. [reliable: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Both validity and reliability are commonly used in academic and scientific contexts, particularly in research and testing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between validity and reliability?
Both words are formal and are typically used in academic and scientific writing rather than in everyday language.