What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
granny
Example
My granny always tells the best stories about her youth. [granny: noun]
Example
She looks like a sweet granny with her white hair and glasses. [granny: adjective]
nana
Example
I love spending time with my nana, she's so much fun. [nana: noun]
Example
Her nana is always up for trying new things and exploring the world. [nana: possessive noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Nana is more commonly used than granny in American English, while granny is more common in British English. Both words are informal and affectionate, but their usage may vary depending on the region and culture.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between granny and nana?
Neither granny nor nana are formal terms, and they are typically used in casual and familiar contexts. However, nana may be perceived as slightly more modern and informal than granny due to its association with American English and younger grandmothers.