What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
agency
Example
The travel agency helped us plan our trip to Europe. [agency: noun]
Example
She has the agency to make her own decisions. [agency: noun]
Example
The new technology gives us agency over our data. [agency: noun]
bureau
Example
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is responsible for investigating federal crimes. [bureau: noun]
Example
The weather bureau provides forecasts and warnings to the public. [bureau: noun]
Example
He keeps his clothes organized in the bureau in his bedroom. [bureau: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Agency is more commonly used than bureau in everyday language, especially in American English. Agency is also more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts than bureau.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between agency and bureau?
Both agency and bureau are commonly used in formal contexts, such as government or business settings. However, bureau may have a more formal connotation due to its association with government departments and bureaucracy.
