What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bags
Example
She packed her clothes in a suitcase and her toiletries in a bag. [bag: noun]
Example
He carefully bagged the groceries at the supermarket. [bagged: past tense verb]
tote
Example
She used a tote bag to carry her laptop and notebooks to work. [tote: noun]
Example
He decided to tote his camera around during the trip to capture memorable moments. [tote: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bags is a more commonly used term in everyday language and covers a wider range of contexts and styles. Totes is a more specific term that may be used in certain situations or when referring to a particular style of bag.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bags and tote?
Both bags and totes can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, bags is a more versatile term that can be employed in various formality levels, while totes may be more commonly used in casual or trendy settings.