What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bars
Example
Let's meet at the bar for a drink after work. [bar: noun]
Example
He enjoys going to bars to meet new people. [bars: plural noun]
saloon
Example
They decided to visit a saloon to experience the Old West ambiance. [saloon: noun]
Example
The movie depicted a scene in a Wild West saloon. [saloon: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bars is the more commonly used term in everyday language. It is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, from casual neighborhood bars to trendy cocktail bars. On the other hand, saloon is less commonly used and may sound more formal or old-fashioned. It is often used in specific contexts, such as historical reenactments or themed venues.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bars and saloon?
While bars are generally associated with a casual and informal tone, saloon can sound more formal or old-fashioned due to its historical connotations. Saloon may be more appropriate in formal writing or when referring to specific historical contexts, while bars can be used in both formal and informal contexts.