What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
county
Example
I live in Orange County, California. [county: noun]
Example
The county government is responsible for maintaining roads and public safety. [county: adjective]
Example
The county fair showcases the best of local agriculture and crafts. [county: noun]
province
Example
I grew up in British Columbia province in Canada. [province: noun]
Example
The provincial government is responsible for education and healthcare. [provincial: adjective]
Example
The province of Quebec has a unique French-speaking culture. [province: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
County is more commonly used in the United States, while province is more common in Canada and some other countries. However, both words are widely understood and used in their respective regions.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between county and province?
Both county and province are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation and audience.
