What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
whim
Example
On a whim, she decided to dye her hair pink. [whim: noun]
Example
He whimsically suggested they go skydiving. [whimsically: adverb]
fancy
Example
I fancy a cup of tea right now. [fancy: verb]
Example
She had a fancy for expensive jewelry. [fancy: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Fancy is more commonly used than whim in everyday language. Fancy is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while whim is less common and refers to a more specific type of impulsive behavior.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between whim and fancy?
Fancy is more formal than whim and is often used in written or formal contexts. Whim is typically associated with a casual and informal tone.