What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
diner
Example
Let's go to the diner for some pancakes and coffee. [diner: noun]
Example
She works as a waitress at a diner on Main Street. [diner: noun]
restaurant
Example
We went to a fancy restaurant for our anniversary dinner. [restaurant: noun]
Example
He owns a chain of restaurants across the country. [restaurant: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Restaurant is more commonly used than diner in everyday language. Restaurant is a versatile term that covers a wide range of establishments, from fast-food chains to high-end eateries. Diner, on the other hand, is a more specific term that refers to a particular type of eatery.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between diner and restaurant?
Diner is typically associated with a casual and informal tone, while restaurant can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the establishment and the occasion.
