What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
situational
Example
The situational awareness of the pilot helped avoid a potential disaster. [situational: adjective]
Example
The situational factors played a significant role in the outcome of the experiment. [situational: adjective]
circumstantial
Example
The circumstantial evidence suggested that the suspect was at the scene of the crime. [circumstantial: adjective]
Example
The circumstantial details of the story were crucial in understanding the motives of the characters. [circumstantial: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Situational is more commonly used than circumstantial in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between situational and circumstantial?
Circumstantial is more often used in legal or formal contexts, while situational is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels.
