What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
cozy
Example
The fireplace made the room feel so cozy. [cozy: adjective]
Example
Let's have a cozy night in with some blankets and hot cocoa. [cozy: noun]
homely
Example
The homely aroma of baking bread filled the house. [homely: adjective]
Example
I love spending time doing homely activities like gardening or cooking. [homely: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cozy is more commonly used than homely in American English, while homely is more commonly used in British English. Both words are used in everyday language, but cozy is more versatile and can be used in various contexts, while homely is more specific and often used to describe a family home or a sense of familiarity.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between cozy and homely?
Both cozy and homely are informal words that are typically used in casual conversations or writing. However, homely can sometimes be perceived as less formal than cozy, due to its association with plainness or lack of sophistication.
