What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
currency
Example
The currency in Japan is the yen. [currency: noun]
Example
I need to exchange my currency for euros before I travel to Europe. [currency: noun]
Example
Money serves as a currency for transactions between buyers and sellers. [currency: noun]
coinage
Example
The coinage of new pennies was halted due to a shortage of copper. [coinage: noun]
Example
I collected rare coinage from around the world. [coinage: noun]
Example
The use of coinage dates back to ancient civilizations such as Greece and Rome. [coinage: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Currency is a more common word than coinage in everyday language, as it is a broader term that encompasses various forms of money. Coinage is more specialized and often used in historical or numismatic contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between currency and coinage?
Currency is a more versatile term that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while coinage is more specialized and may be considered more formal due to its historical and cultural significance.