What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
wilderness
Example
The hikers got lost in the wilderness and had to be rescued. [wilderness: noun]
Example
The wilderness area is home to many endangered species. [wilderness: adjective]
wilds
Example
The explorers ventured into the wilds of the Amazon rainforest. [wilds: noun]
Example
The wilds of Alaska are breathtakingly beautiful. [wilds: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Wilderness is more common than wilds in everyday language and is often used in official contexts such as national parks and protected areas.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between wilderness and wilds?
Wilderness is more formal than wilds, which is more commonly used in informal contexts such as travel writing or adventure stories.