Poetic vs. Poetical — What's the Difference?
By Fiza Rafique & Urooj Arif — Updated on April 8, 2024
Poetic often refers to the essence or quality of poetry, while poetical can describe something related to or characteristic of poetry.
Difference Between Poetic and Poetical
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Poetic typically captures the essence, beauty, or emotional depth associated with poetry, emphasizing a natural, inherent quality. Poetical, on the other hand, is more commonly used to refer to things specifically related to or characteristic of the form and structure of poetry, like poetical works or devices.
While "poetic" often suggests an abstract, evocative quality that can be found in various forms of expression beyond written poetry, "poetical" tends to be used in contexts directly connected to poetry itself. For instance, one might describe a landscape as poetic when it inspires awe and beauty, whereas a discussion about poetical meter would be focusing on the structural aspects of poems.
In everyday usage, "poetic" is more common, possibly because it applies broadly to experiences, moments, or descriptions that resonate on an emotional or aesthetic level, similar to poetry. "Poetical," while still used, may come across as slightly more formal or specific to discussions of poetry as an art form.
Despite these nuances, the terms are often used interchangeably in casual conversation. The choice between them can depend on the desired emphasis—whether on the evocative, emotional qualities (poetic) or the formal, structural elements (poetical) of poetry.
Comparison Chart
Definition
Pertaining to the essence or quality of poetry; evocative.
Relating to or characteristic of the structure of poetry.
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Usage
Broader, often used to describe anything reminiscent of poetry in beauty or emotional depth.
More specific, used in reference to formal aspects of poetry.
Connotation
Emphasizes natural, inherent beauty or emotion.
Suggests a direct, sometimes technical, relation to poetry.
Examples
A poetic landscape; a poetic turn of phrase.
Poetical works; poetical devices.
Commonality
More commonly used in everyday language.
Less common, may appear more formal or scholarly.
Compare with Definitions
Poetic
Evoking emotions or images.
The silence between them was poetic, full of unspoken words and feelings.
Poetical
Pertaining to poetry as an art form.
Her analysis focuses on the poetical structure of modern verse.
Poetic
Using language artistically.
His speeches are known for their poetic eloquence.
Poetical
Formal study or discussion of poetry.
His thesis explores the evolution of poetical forms through the ages.
Poetic
Reminiscent of poetry's beauty.
The poetic sunset left everyone in awe.
Poetical
Characteristic of poetry's techniques.
The use of metaphor is a common poetical device.
Poetic
Inherent lyricism or rhythm.
There's something uniquely poetic about the city's hustle and bustle.
Poetical
In reference to written or spoken poetry.
She has published a collection of poetical works that challenge traditional norms.
Poetic
Essence of poetry in expression.
The novel's prose has a poetic quality that captivates readers.
Poetical
Related to poets or the practice of poetry.
The conference gathered both historical and contemporary poetical voices.
Poetic
Of or relating to poetry
Poetic works.
Poetical
Poetic.
Poetic
Having a quality or style characteristic of poetry
Poetic diction.
Poetical
Fancifully depicted or embellished; idealized.
Poetic
Suitable as a subject for poetry
A poetic romance.
Poetical
Synonym of poetic.
Poetic
Of, relating to, or befitting a poet
Poetic insight.
Poetical
Of or relating to poetry;
Poetic works
A poetic romance
Poetic
Characterized by romantic imagery
"Turner's vision of the rainbow ... was poetic, and he knew it" (Lawrence Gowing).
Poetical
Characteristic of or befitting poetry;
Poetic diction
Poetic
The theory or practice of writing poetry; poetics.
Poetic
Relating to poetry.
Iambics are one form of poetic meter.
Poetic
Characteristic of poets; romantic, imaginative, etc.
Poetic
Connecting to the soul of the beholder. en
Poetic
Of or pertaining to poetry; suitable for poetry, or for writing poetry; as, poetic talent, theme, work, sentiments.
Poetic
Expressed in metrical form; exhibiting the imaginative or the rhythmical quality of poetry; as, a poetical composition; poetical prose.
Poetic
Of or relating to poetry;
Poetic works
A poetic romance
Poetic
Characterized by romantic imagery;
Turner's vision of the rainbow...was poetic
Poetic
Of or relating to poets;
Poetic insight
Poetic
Characteristic of or befitting poetry;
Poetic diction
Common Curiosities
Why might someone choose to use poetic over poetical?
Someone might choose "poetic" for its broader, more evocative connotation, especially when describing things outside the strict realm of poetry that nonetheless resonate with poetry's emotional or aesthetic qualities.
How is poetical used differently from poetic?
Poetical is more specifically used to describe aspects directly related to the form or structure of poetry or its formal study and discussion.
Can a scene or moment be described as poetical?
While it's more common to describe scenes or moments as poetic, emphasizing their beauty or emotional impact, they can be termed poetical if highlighting their resemblance to structured poetry.
Can everyday speech be poetic or poetical?
Everyday speech can be considered poetic if it unconsciously mirrors the beauty or emotional depth of poetry; it's less common, though not impossible, for everyday speech to be termed poetical unless referring to deliberate use of poetic structures or devices.
Can prose be poetical?
Yes, prose can be described as poetical when it employs devices or structures commonly associated with poetry, such as rhythm, meter, or figurative language, bridging the gap between poetic expression and narrative form.
What does poetic mean?
Poetic refers to something that possesses the qualities or essence of poetry, often evoking beauty or deep emotion.
Is poetic language the same as poetical language?
Poetic language refers to language that evokes the qualities of poetry through its beauty or emotional depth, while poetical language might specifically reference the use of devices or structures characteristic of poetry.
What makes a piece of writing poetic?
A piece of writing is considered poetic if it captures the essence, beauty, or emotional intensity typical of poetry, even if it isn't structured as a poem.
How does one analyze poetical works?
Analyzing poetical works involves examining their form, structure, use of literary devices, and how these elements contribute to the overall meaning and impact of the poetry.
What role does emotion play in defining something as poetic?
Emotion plays a significant role in defining something as poetic, as poetry often seeks to evoke a deep emotional response through its lyrical quality, imagery, and thematic depth.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Co-written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
