What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
monotonous
Example
The lecture was so monotonous that I struggled to stay awake. [monotonous: adjective]
Example
The factory job was monotonous, with the same repetitive tasks every day. [monotonous: adjective]
repetitive
Example
The assembly line work was very repetitive, with the same motions over and over. [repetitive: adjective]
Example
The child's repetitive behavior of tapping their fingers on the table was distracting. [repetitive: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Repetitive is more commonly used than monotonous in everyday language. Repetitive is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, while monotonous is less common and more specific in its usage.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between monotonous and repetitive?
Both monotonous and repetitive are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
