What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
affordable
Example
The hotel room was affordable and comfortable. [affordable: adjective]
Example
I found an affordable apartment in the city. [affordable: adjective]
economical
Example
Buying a fuel-efficient car is more economical in the long run. [economical: adjective]
Example
Using energy-saving light bulbs is an economical way to reduce electricity bills. [economical: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Affordable is more commonly used than economical in everyday language. Affordable is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while economical is more specific and formal.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between affordable and economical?
Economical is more formal than affordable and is often used in business or academic contexts. Affordable is more casual and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
