What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
billfold
Example
He reached into his billfold to pay for the meal. [billfold: noun]
Example
She always carries her billfold in her back pocket. [billfold: noun]
pocketbook
Example
She grabbed her pocketbook before heading out the door. [pocketbook: noun]
Example
He bought her a new designer pocketbook for her birthday. [pocketbook: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Billfold is less commonly used than pocketbook in everyday language. Billfold is more specific to men's wallets and has a more limited usage compared to pocketbook, which is a more versatile term used by both men and women.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between billfold and pocketbook?
While billfold is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, pocketbook can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Additionally, pocketbook is often seen as a fashionable accessory, making it more suitable for formal occasions.
