What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
boot
Example
She wore a pair of black boots with her jeans. [boots: noun]
Example
He likes to go hiking and always wears his hiking boots. [boots: noun]
shoe
Example
I need to buy new shoes for work. [shoes: noun]
Example
She loves wearing comfortable shoes when she goes for a walk. [shoes: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shoe is more commonly used than boot in everyday language. Shoe is a versatile term that encompasses various types of footwear, while boot is more specific and often associated with certain activities or weather conditions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between boot and shoe?
While shoe is a neutral term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, boot is generally considered more casual and informal, although it can also be used in specific formal settings such as military or work environments.