What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bookshelves
Example
I need to buy some new bookshelves to accommodate my growing book collection. [bookshelves: noun]
Example
She arranged her books neatly on the bookshelves in her study. [bookshelves: plural noun]
bookcase
Example
The bookcase in the living room is filled with novels and reference books. [bookcase: noun]
Example
He bought a new bookcase to organize his collection of cookbooks. [bookcase: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Bookcase is more commonly used than bookshelves in everyday language. Bookcase is a versatile term that covers a wide range of storage units for books, while bookshelves specifically refers to the shelves themselves.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bookshelves and bookcase?
Both bookshelves and bookcase can be used in formal and informal contexts. However, bookcase may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its specific and defined structure.
