What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
assort
Example
The store manager will assort the products on the shelves according to their categories. [assort: verb]
Example
She likes to assort different types of candies in a jar for a colorful display. [assorting: gerund or present participle]
sort
Example
Please sort the books on the shelf by genre. [sort: verb]
Example
He has a collection of stamps that he likes to sort by country. [sorting: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sort is more commonly used than assort in everyday language. Sort is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while assort is less common and often used in specific situations where a mix or variety is desired.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between assort and sort?
While sort is typically associated with a neutral and formal tone, assort can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the specific situation and intention.