What's the main difference between a "journal" and a "diary?"
Native speaker’s answer
Rebecca
They are similar in their use and meaning! A journal can have a "diary" like quality, but a journal can be used for more general documentation, writing, and thoughts than a diary is used for. In this context, I consider a "diary" as more personal and private than a journal. There is also another version of a "diary." This version is used in a similar way to a calendar and planner, whereas a journal isn't used for such things. And sometimes, the name of the book can really just be a personal preference! Ex: I'll mark the appointment in my diary. => diary as a planner. Ex: I'm going to do some journaling now. => General writing, or whatever you want to write. Ex: Mom! Tim read my diary! => personal and private thoughts in a book.
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