What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
weekly
Example
I have a weekly meeting with my team on Mondays. [weekly: adjective]
Example
The newspaper comes out weekly on Thursdays. [weekly: adverb]
periodical
Example
The company sends out a periodical newsletter to its employees. [periodical: adjective]
Example
I enjoy reading periodicals like National Geographic and The Economist. [periodical: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Weekly is more commonly used in everyday language, especially when referring to routines or activities that happen once a week. Periodical is more commonly used in formal or academic contexts, particularly when referring to publications.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between weekly and periodical?
Periodical is generally considered more formal than weekly, as it is often used in academic or professional settings. However, both words can be used in formal or informal contexts depending on the situation.