What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cane
Example
The elderly man leaned on his cane as he walked down the street. [cane: noun]
Example
She practiced martial arts with a cane for self-defense. [cane: noun]
staff
Example
He used a staff to help him hike up the mountain. [staff: noun]
Example
The company has a dedicated staff that works hard to provide excellent customer service. [staff: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
In everyday language, cane is more commonly used than staff. Cane is a familiar term used to describe a walking aid or a slender stick, while staff is less commonly used and often associated with specific contexts such as organizations or fantasy literature.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cane and staff?
Both cane and staff can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, staff may be more commonly used in formal settings due to its association with organizations and businesses.
