What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
dwelling
Example
The family's dwelling was a small cabin in the woods. [dwelling: noun]
Example
She was dwelling on the past and couldn't move forward. [dwelling: verb]
residence
Example
The new residence was a spacious apartment in the city. [residence: noun]
Example
He has been in residence at the university for three years. [residence: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Residence is more commonly used than dwelling in formal or official contexts, such as legal documents or government forms. However, dwelling is more commonly used in everyday language to refer to a place where someone lives.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between dwelling and residence?
Residence is generally considered a more formal and official term than dwelling, which has a more neutral connotation and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
