What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bench
Example
I sat on a bench in the park and enjoyed the sunshine. [bench: noun]
Example
The spectators cheered from the benches as the team scored a goal. [benches: plural noun]
sofa
Example
I love curling up on the sofa with a good book. [sofa: noun]
Example
We gathered on the sofa to watch our favorite movie. [sofa: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Sofa is more commonly used than bench in everyday language. Sofa is a versatile piece of furniture found in many homes, while bench is less common and often associated with outdoor or public seating.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bench and sofa?
While bench is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, sofa is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.