What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
commissary
Example
I need to stop by the commissary to buy some snacks for the weekend. [commissary: noun]
Example
The commissary offers a wide range of products at affordable prices. [commissary: noun]
shop
Example
Let's go to the shop and see if they have the book I'm looking for. [shop: noun]
Example
She enjoys shopping for clothes at different shops in the mall. [shopping: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shop is a more commonly used term in everyday language, as it is a versatile word that can be applied to different types of stores and retail settings. Commissary, on the other hand, is less common and is mainly used in specific contexts such as military bases or prisons.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between commissary and shop?
While shop is a neutral and widely accepted term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, commissary has a more specific and institutional connotation, making it more suitable for formal or specialized discussions.
