What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
crew
Example
The crew of the ship worked hard to keep it running smoothly. [crew: noun]
Example
She crewed on a sailboat during her summer vacation. [crewed: past tense verb]
staff
Example
The staff at the hotel were very helpful and friendly. [staff: noun]
Example
He was staffed on a project with a team of engineers. [staffed: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Staff is more commonly used than crew in everyday language, especially in professional settings. Staff is a versatile term that can be used in various contexts, while crew is more specific to certain industries.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between crew and staff?
Staff is generally considered more formal and professional than crew, which has a more casual and informal connotation.