What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
accounting
Example
The company hired an accounting firm to manage their finances. [accounting: noun]
Example
She is studying accounting in college to become a certified public accountant. [accounting: gerund or present participle]
bookkeeping
Example
The small business owner does his own bookkeeping using accounting software. [bookkeeping: noun]
Example
She enjoys bookkeeping because it allows her to keep track of her personal finances. [bookkeeping: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bookkeeping is more commonly used than accounting in everyday language. Bookkeeping is often used to refer to the process of recording financial transactions, while accounting is used in more formal or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between accounting and bookkeeping?
Accounting is generally considered more formal than bookkeeping. It is a professional field that requires specialized knowledge and certification, while bookkeeping can be done by anyone with basic accounting skills and knowledge.
