What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
background
Example
She has a strong background in finance, with a degree in economics and several years of experience in banking. [background: noun]
Example
The movie is set in the background of a small town in the 1950s. [background: noun]
context
Example
In order to understand the meaning of this word, you need to consider the context in which it is used. [context: noun]
Example
The professor provided some additional context for the historical event we were studying. [context: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Context is more commonly used than background in everyday language. Context is a versatile word that can be applied to various situations and subjects, while background is more specific and often used in specific contexts such as job interviews or storytelling.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between background and context?
Both background and context can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, background is more commonly used in professional or academic settings, while context is used in a wider range of situations, including casual conversations.
