What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
equip
Example
The company will equip all employees with laptops for remote work. [equip: verb]
Example
I need to equip myself with proper gear before going on a camping trip. [equip: reflexive verb]
Example
The gym is equipped with state-of-the-art exercise machines. [equipped: past participle]
furnish
Example
We need to furnish the new apartment with a couch and a dining table. [furnish: verb]
Example
The report furnished important data to support the hypothesis. [furnished: past tense]
Example
The company will furnish all employees with necessary office supplies. [furnish: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Furnish is more commonly used than equip in everyday language, especially in the context of home decor or interior design. Equip is more specialized and often used in technical or professional contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between equip and furnish?
Both equip and furnish can be used in formal and informal contexts, but equip may be slightly more formal due to its technical or professional connotations.