What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
courtyard
Example
The hotel had a beautiful courtyard with a fountain in the center. [courtyard: noun]
Example
We enjoyed sitting in the courtyard of our apartment building. [courtyard: noun]
terrace
Example
We had a lovely dinner on the terrace overlooking the city skyline. [terrace: noun]
Example
I like to sit on my apartment's terrace and read a book. [terrace: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Terrace is more commonly used than courtyard in everyday language. Terrace is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while courtyard is less common and often associated with traditional architecture or institutional settings.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between courtyard and terrace?
While courtyard is typically associated with a formal or historical tone, terrace is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.