What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
bowl
Example
She poured the soup into a bowl and served it to the guests. [bowl: noun]
Example
He enjoys going bowling with his friends every weekend. [bowling: gerund or present participle]
container
Example
She packed her lunch in a plastic container. [container: noun]
Example
The storage containers helped keep the garage tidy and organized. [containers: plural noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Container is a more commonly used word than bowl in everyday language. Container is a versatile term that covers a wide range of objects used for holding or storing things, while bowl is more specific to a particular type of dishware used for serving or eating food.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between bowl and container?
Both bowl and container can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, container is a more neutral and general term that can be employed in various formality levels, making it suitable for both casual and formal situations.