What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
doormat
Example
Please wipe your feet on the doormat before entering the house. [doormat: noun]
Example
She felt like a doormat, always doing what others wanted without standing up for herself. [doormat: metaphor]
rug
Example
I bought a new rug for the living room to match the curtains. [rug: noun]
Example
The bathroom rug was soft and fluffy under my feet. [rug: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rug is more commonly used than doormat in everyday language. Rug is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while doormat is less common and has a more specific use.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between doormat and rug?
Both doormat and rug are generally informal words, but rug can be used in more formal contexts when referring to a high-quality or expensive carpet used for decoration or insulation.